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15 June 2000
Number 2
Subject
BUPAssubmission to the Governments National Beds Inquiry
Background
The National Beds Inquiry into the number, mix and use ofNHS beds in England was announced by then Health Secretary Frank Dobson onSeptember 30th 1998. TheInquiry report was published for consultation on February 10 2000. It said that:
The number of NHS beds had been falling for 30 years butthe NHS was likely to require more beds in future
Two thirds of general and acute NHS beds are occupied bypeople over 65 and at least two out of every ten days spent in hospital beds bypeople over 65 could be better provided in alternative facilities such asintermediate care beds.
The consultation on the findings of the inquiry will formthe basis of a national strategy for the long-term future of the NHS.
BUPAs position
In its submission to the consultation, BUPA envisages fivepossible areas of partnership for the private sector:
1. Carrying out non-emergency hospital procedures.
2. Providing clinical support services such as radiology.
3. Intermediate care in care homes for elderly patients tohelp their transition from hospital to home.
4. International recruitment of clinical staff.
5. Modernisation of NHS infrastructure, including informationtechnology.
BUPA is seeking to explore with the Department ofHealth the development of facilities for surgery (especially day-case) and forintermediate care; and the possibility of contracting with the public sector tobuild and manage purpose-built facilities on BUPA sites or public sector sites.
Further information: RichardJones, Operations Director Hospitals, 020 7656 2017
AndrewVallance Owen, Medical Director, 020 7656 2036
PeterLudford, Regional Director, 01483 442840