It now appears that the timetable for completion of the central approval processes will mean that our two organisations will not be in a position to integrate until the early autumn.
This is because further information is required by the NHS Co-operation and Competition Panel in order for it to complete its full and thorough assessment of the case for integration. The views of the Co-operation and Competition Panel form an important part of the decision-making process for this sort of change in the NHS. The Panel's recommendation is considered by the Transactions Board of the Department of Health before the Secretary of State for Health makes the final decision.
Sir Jonathan Michael, Chief Executive of the ORH said: "The proposed integration promises to create an organisation with greater resilience in the current economic climate, with the potential to deliver a successful Foundation Trust application. Both Trusts remain fully committed to the change and wish to maintain momentum in our increasing collaboration. We are encouraged that the Board of South Central Strategic Health Authority supported the Business Plan for integration which also has the backing of our commissioners. We will work to address the issues about which the Co-operation and Competition Panel has requested additional information."
Jan Fowler, Chief Executive of the NOC said: "We firmly believe that an enlarged organisation will make the most of our combined clinical and academic excellence to deliver better patient care for the people of Oxfordshire and beyond. The ORH and the NOC have been developing closer relationships for some time, and already collaborate in a number of clinical services. With all the changes happening within the NHS now, both Trusts believe that this is the time to come together to serve our common goals of excellence in patient care, research and clinical education."
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