Responding to the Health Select Committee's inquiry into the role of independent sector treatment centres, the BGS has commented as follows on the questions raised: 

Are ISTCs providing value for money?

They are providing value for money but in future, costings will need to include an element for delayed discharge.

Does the operation of ISTCs have an adverse effect on NHS services in their areas?

The operation of ISTCs could have an adverse effect on NHS Services in their areas through the inevitable selection of younger fitter people for simple procedures. This could concentrate the levels of highly dependant older people within the NHS services. Treatment centres could then be seen to be ageist.

What arrangements are made for patient follow-up and the management of complications?

If older people develop complications they require rapid access to multi- disciplinary medical care. In addition post operatively they will often need to have help and support from the multi-disciplinary team of therapists and social workers.

What role have ISTCs played and should they play in training medical staff?

ISTCs should be made to share costs of training health care professionals. There will be good training opportunities but these would need to be regulated.

Are ISTCs providing care of the same or higher standard as that provided by the NHS?

They should complement local health services and not undermine them

What changes should the Government make to its policy towards ISTCs in the light of experience to date ?

In the light of experience to date ISTCs need to take account of the multiple needs of older people. Who are more likely to have multiple diseases and long- term conditions associated with impairment, disability and handicap.

What criteria should be used in evaluating the bids for the Second Wave of ISTCs?

The needs of older people.

What factors have been and should be taken into account when deciding the location of ISTCs?

They need to be accessible for older people i.e. near transport links.