Cardiff, Wales – Doctors in Wales have raised concerns over dangerous staffing levels and supply shortages at practices supported by a GP management company, eHarley Street. Locum doctors have refused to work at Welsh practices linked to the company, claiming they are owed collectively around £250,000 in unpaid wages.
One doctor, Dr. Samantha Jenkins, expressed worries about patient safety and mentioned being owed more than £10,000 for her work at various medical practices. She highlighted issues such as limited oxygen supply in one practice, labeling it as a huge patient safety concern.
Dr. Mark Wells, clinical lead at Brynmawr Medical Practice, revealed staffing challenges, saying he was the only GP for a practice serving 11,000 patients, when five GPs should have been present. He mentioned that locum doctors were refusing to work due to lack of payment, causing potential risks in patient care.
The company, eHarley Street, has denied the claims made by the doctors, stating that they do not hold any contracts for General Medical Services in Wales. However, concerns have been raised about delayed payments to locum doctors and supply shortages at the supported practices.
Local Members of the Senedd have expressed worries about large companies like eHarley Street stepping into the GP services market, taking profits away from the health system. The company’s website suggests they aim to improve general practice, but doctors working at their supported practices have raised serious concerns about operational challenges and financial strain.
The Aneurin Bevan University Health Board in south-east Wales mentioned being aware of concerns related to a GP partnership and assured that they are working closely with the GP partners to ensure compliance with contractual obligations. The health board emphasized their commitment to providing sustainable and reliable services despite the challenges faced in primary care services.
The situation has led to disruptions in patient care, with concerns about hygiene standards and supply shortages in the Welsh practices supported by eHarley Street. Doctors have expressed frustration over the lack of communication and financial challenges, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the future operations of these practices.