NHS 'benefits from EU time directive'

NHS patients and staff have benefited from the introduction of the European working time directive, according to a new study.

 

Critics had said the measure, which restricts the number of hours employees can work, would damage junior doctors' training and lead to staff shortages.

 

However a Department of Health study into after hours care found the directive has actually delivered improvements to patient care and had no negative impact on training.

 

The report concludes that the change co-ordinated through the 'hospitals at night scheme' had improved patient care by prioritising acutely ill patients, ensuring they were treated more quickly and were seen by doctors who are more alert

 

It also found that moves to cut accident and emergency waiting times, cancelled operations and in-patient waiting times had not been effected.

 

Health minister Caroline Flint said: "Implementation of the working time directive for doctors in training in August 2004 was not easy, but it is testament to the hard work and dedication of staff that we have managed to come this far.

 

"Hospital at night played a key part role in helping trusts formulate new ways of working, achieve working time directive compliance, improve patient care and encouraged a better work/life balance between doctors.

 

"As the report shows, the successful implementation of hospital at night prioritises acutely ill patients, and ensures that patients are treated more quickly and are seen by doctors who are more alert.

 

"The involvement and advice from professional organisations and colleagues in the wider NHS has been critical to the successful implementation of hospital at night.

 

"The working time directive was a great opportunity for us to modernise the way we work to provide faster treatment for patients, a better patient experience and a better working environment for staff."