CEO expresses ‘extreme concern’ about trust performance

An acute trust chief executive has warned that his organisation will struggle to “provide high-quality, timely, and financially affordable care” over the winter.

The alert was contained in a message from University Hospitals of Leicester Trust CEO Richard Mitchell to the trust’s system partners.

The large trust is among the worst performers against the four-hour accident and emergency target in England, and its emergency care pathway costs are already driving a deterioration in its financial deficit before the winter period.

He wrote: “I am extremely concerned about our ability to provide high-quality, timely, and financially affordable care to patients this year.” Stressing the urgency of the issue, Mr Mitchell added: “There are 48 days until the start of the NHS winter (1 October) and 145 days until Monday 6 January 2025, which is likely to be the most difficult day of the period.”

Speaking to HSJ, the UHL CEO said: “The UEC pathway is our greatest financial risk at UHL and any growth in demand has a negative impact on our financial position. Providing safe and effective patient care is our priority, and we were stretched to the limit in delivering that last winter. While the industrial action context has changed, and we have plans in place to improve flow and capacity, the overall picture is not different enough to alter our assessment that this year will be incredibly tough again. We need to be honest with our stakeholders and communities about that challenge.”

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Source: HSJ, 22 August 2024