Shropdoc Statement on GPOOH Contract Award

Shropdoc, the not-for-profit social enterprise that has proudly delivered urgent primary care services across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin for 30 years, today issued a statement following the outcome of the procurement process of the STW ICB’s decision to award the GPOOH (General Practice Out of Hours) contract to HealthHero (formerly Medvivo).

Shropdoc acknowledges the formal outcome of the procurement process. However, the organisation maintains its firm disagreement with the decision, citing significant concerns regarding the process.

“For three decades, Shropdoc has been a cornerstone of urgent primary care in our community, driven by our values, local expertise, and an unwavering commitment to high-quality patient care,” said CEO Daniel Robinson. “Our recent bid to retain these services was built upon this legacy, our local knowledge and expertise, and the proven dedication to our patients and the wider community.”

The organisation highlights that the STW ICB’s clear objective for financial efficiencies, evidenced by a reduced financial envelope for the service, created an almost impossible competitive landscape.

“As a not-for-profit social enterprise, it became exceptionally challenging to compete against larger, profit and shareholder-driven private entities within a process predominantly driven by cost,” added Mr Robinson.

Shropdoc formally appealed the outcome of the procurement process, based on what it firmly believes were fundamental flaws within the process. While representations were made to the NHS independent panel, they were unfortunately not upheld on this occasion.

“We want to extend our profound gratitude to the community of Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin for their unwavering support throughout the past nine months. Your trust and partnership have been invaluable,” stated Mr Robinson. “Crucially, we also want to acknowledge and thank our exceptionally talented and dedicated employees and GP Members.

“For 30 years, they have embodied the very best of urgent primary care, delivering compassionate and high-quality services day and night. We are immensely proud of their professionalism and commitment.

“While this marks a significant change for the GPOOH service, Shropdoc remains positive about its future. The organisation is a resilient, people-centric provider deeply embedded in the community. We are committed to working collaboratively with the relevant parties to ensure a seamless and smooth transition of services over the mobilisation period for the new Contract.

“This decision, while disappointing for this specific service, is not the end of Shropdoc,” concluded Mr Robinson. “We are committed to building on our strong foundation, exploring new opportunities to serve our community, and continuing to thrive.

“We sincerely hope that patients will continue to receive the quality and access to care they deserve under the new provider, and that the system finds an effective partner in the new provider moving forward for the benefit of all.”