Health officials accused of attempts to make 'potentially catastrophic' cuts by stealth

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The findings from a poll of 99 clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) –  around half of those in operation across the country – reveal the extent of the cutbacks planned within 18 months. 

One in three intend to close or downgrade Accident and Emergency departments, while one in five expect to close consultant-led maternity services, forcing women in labour to travel further.

More than half intend to close or downgrade community hospitals, while 46 per cent are planning an overall reduction in inpatient NHS beds.

One quarter anticipate job cuts in hospitals, and almost as many intend to close inpatient paediatric departments, the research found. 

A Department of Health spokesman said:

“We know the NHS is under pressure, and to ensure the best standards of care in the future we need an updated system which even better prioritises GP access, cancer care and mental health treatment. 

“The NHS is using sustainability and transformation plans to help deliver  this change. No decisions have been made and none will occur without local  consultation."

Health services have been ordered to draw up 44 STPs, which were submitted earlier this month, in order to redesign services and tackle widespread financial problems across the NHS. 

Senior officials have insisted the plans do not amount to cuts. But the findings of the research show widespread closures planned. 

The survey of CCG chairmen and accountable officers found that almost half of the senior figures polled by Health Service Journal said they expected political opposition to their plans, while 40 per cent expected local GPs to try to block their plans.

Three quarters of those who took part in the survey said they thought that lack of funding  would present a significant barrier to the success of their plans, while half said the inability to control patient demand would be an obstacle. 

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