Welsh council supports a public inquiry into eHarley Street, which ran nine surgeries amid patient and payment issues.
eHarley Street managed nine Welsh surgeries across Caerphilly, Blaenau Gwent, Newport, and Torfaen. Patients struggled to get appointments, and staffing was dangerously low, causing issues. Doctors claimed the company owed them thousands in unpaid wages.
Councillor Helen Cunningham proposed the motion, seeking an inquiry into recent events and a review of GP contracts. Councillor John C Morgan spoke about health board members who were “horrified” by the situation. He said the situation was a “stark reminder” of problems caused by private companies running health services.
Councillor Tommy Smith hopes for a quick inquiry, stating companies like eHarley Street are unwelcome. Councillor Wayne Hodgins mentioned a previous concern where a manager flagged issues but was dismissed.
Councillors voted unanimously for the motion due to questions about the eHarley Street contracts. They want an inquiry into awarding and managing those contracts, plus the requested GP contract review. Dr. Samantha Jenkins, who worked for eHarley Street, raised concerns about delayed payments, reporting she hadn’t been paid for two months, and this was her only job.
The company returned five surgeries to the health board, citing “political, financial and operational pressures,” and reject all allegations of wrongdoing in the practices. They say they’re working to fix problems. Two GPs, Jalil Ahmed and Jonathan Allinson, run the company, with a registered address in Hinckley, Leicestershire. Both hold many other company appointments, linked to other “eHarley” companies.
eHarley Street claimed they don’t hold Welsh contracts, stating partners hold “several contracts” for surgeries. They say finance strains the general practice system, but the company stated they are working to resolve payment issues. The health board continues to monitor the remaining practices, ensuring services are sustainable while working with staff and community. The aim is to provide quality primary care, and they are thankful for the community’s support.