2.6 There was greater involvement from EHH than in the previous procurement. The Authority's Finance Director sat on the Trust's Redevelopment Board and was involved in the assessment of bids.
2.7 Clinicians were involved in both of the procurement processes and the additional time between the first and the second procurement processes allowed them to refine their ideas on clinical pathways and the optimal layout of services. They were closely involved in drawing-up internally-generated Schedules of Accommodation and then assessing the resultant design proposals generated by bidders. Both bidders and advisers told us they were able to work well with the clinicians and that their input had been essential. Senior clinicians commented that their greater involvement in the design and quality assurance process generated greater ownership by them of the outcome. In their opinion the clinical output that will be achieved is probably better than in other PFI hospital projects. They are keen to share their knowledge and experience with other Trusts undertaking PFI procurement.
2.8 The Patients' Partnership Panel and the Trust's Corporate Forum provided an opportunity for patient representatives and staff to keep abreast of developments in the procurement process. The Trust Chief Executive gave presentations to local Community Health Councils and to local Primary Care Groups.
2.9 The Trust and London Regional Office (LRO) felt that stakeholder consultation had been effective. There have, however, been some reservations. The local Community Health Councils and Primary Care Groups mentioned a lack of consultation with them over some aspects of service provision at the new hospital and the Trade Union representatives felt that not enough information had filtered down to grassroots staff. The Trust is holding workshops and briefings with staff to inform them of progress and changes that will affect them.