Private companies slam 'divisive' BMA patient pledge plans !

The BMA’s plans to issue patients with pledge cards to block referrals to private providers is putting ‘political prejudice ahead of patients’ interests’, says the alliance representing independent providers.

The claim comes after Pulse revealed BMA Council were considering the plans to record patient preferences on NHS treatment from private providers in their notes in an effort to step up its opposition to the Government’s NHS reforms.

In contrast, the Department of Health said although it wanted to give patients the best treatment available, they were ‘free to express a preference’.

The cards would issue pledge will allow patients to stipulate a preference to be treated only by NHS providers whenever possible, and will be considered at this month’s GPC meeting.

However, David Worskett, director of the NHS Partners Network, said the organisation was ‘disappointed and shocked that the BMA is considering such a divisive scheme’

.http://www.pulsetoday.co.uk/political/political-news/private-companies-slam-divisive-bma-patient-pledge-plans/20000539.article#.UH-mg29fDNU