Written question asked by Lord Campbell-Savours (Labour), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Warner (Labour) on Monday, 9 January 2006.

NHS Deficits

Question: What proposals they have to deal with deficits of primary care trusts and trusts at a local level in the National Health Service.

Answer: It is the responsibility of strategic health authorities to deliver overall financial balance for their local health communities and to ensure that each and every body achieves financial balance. To strengthen these arrangements, turnaround teams were appointed in early December 2005 to support the organisations with the largest deficits. The teams consist of financial and management experts who are experienced in resolving financial problems and managing National Health Service organisations. Over an 18-month period they will support the NHS in identifying opportunities to deliver services with greater cost-effectiveness and to make financial savings. They will focus on ensuring the organisations deliver efficiency and quality improvements needed to achieve both financial balance and better care for patients.

Secondary information