GPs in Stoke-on-Trent have become among the first in the country to use the NHS LIFT procurement system to directly commission new medical facilities.
After putting in a bid to NHS Stoke on Trent for new accommodation, the GPs at the existing Hartshill Surgery commissioned the project directly through local LIFT Co, Prima 200, and, just 18 months after approaching LIFT, the scheme is now under construction. Once complete, the GPs will lease the new property from Prima.
This differing path to procurement opens up an alternative option for GPs, enabling them to have more control over the creation of new healthcare buildings through an approved procurement route.
The start of construction on the £2.6m development was marked by a turf-cutting ceremony attended by representatives from the practice together with patients, primary care trust representatives, Prima 200, and contractor, Thomas Vale.
The GPs can utilise the LIFTCo's experience in developing healthcare buildings to ensure that everything will meet the required standards and quality, while at the same time helping to create a purpose-built facility that is designed specifically around their needs
Ann Pursey, chief executive of Prima 200, said: "LIFT can be a highly-efficient route to procurement as we've seen with Hartshill. A project that took years to get off the ground has very quickly come to fruition and will be complete in just over two years from the start of planning to completion.
"The GPs from Hartshill can utilise the LIFTCo's experience in developing healthcare buildings to ensure that everything will meet the required standards and quality, while at the same time helping to create a purpose-built facility that is designed specifically around their needs. With the backing of the PCT, the GPs are in direct contact with Prima 200's pre-approved suppliers, which avoids any lengthy tendering processes and ensures an efficient timetable for the planning and design stages."
The single-storey 800sq m building will provide a range of improved services, including an onsite pharmacy, for the 6,300 patients currently registered at Hartshill Surgery, as well as allowing space for the practice to grow. There will also be a multi-purpose room available for local community use.
Dr Andrew Dent, lead GP at Hartshill Surgery, said: “Since we started working with Prima, the project has come together very quickly and it's good to see construction work get underway on the new centre. This new facility will help us improve and expand our service offering for the local community and we look forward to seeing plans that we've developed with the development and design team realised."
In addition, the practice will also be able to expand its minor surgery services, in particular increasing its current vasectomy clinic, helping to take pressure off the local hospital and providing support for neighbouring practices. Space will also be set aside to accommodate GP training sessions for undergraduate and postgraduates.
Barbara Andrew of Hartshill and Harpfields Residents' Association said: "Along with other members of the local community, we've been involved in plans for the medical centre for some time and it will be fascinating to see our ideas and input into the design come to life."
