The problems at Barnet Hospital are largely due to its leadership, according to council leader Alan Williams.
Mr Williams moved a motion demanding assurances from the trust that it will improve and asked to see an action plan detailing how this will be done at Tuesday's council meeting.
Barnet and Chase Farm Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs the hospital, was recently given no stars in new NHS performance ratings, making it one of the 12 worst in the country. Its chief executive Elizabeth Heyer, who faces the sack if things are not turned around, watched the debate from the public gallery.
"No-one questions the dedication of the staff or the question of patient care," said Mr Williams. "Nor do I think it is a question of finance because other hospitals with similar budgets have obtained high ratings."
He said he felt the problem was "largely one of leadership" and added that the council must take steps to demand improvements. The motion was unanimously approved. A spokeswoman for the trust assured the council it was making strides to improve its performance. A copy of the action plan detailing how this will be achieved will be sent to relevant councillors when finalised, she added.
October 17, 2001 16:08
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