An investigation by a government body into the long standing problems at Princess Royal University Hospital has published its findings.
After the King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust took over the PRUH in October 2013, progress has been made in improving the hospital but it has been insufficient.
The 'clinical, operational and financial' challenges at the hospital were far greater than anticipated.
Improving the hospital came at significant financial cost to the Trust.
MORE TOP STORIES For example the decision was made to employ agency staff, at an increased cost, to plug staff vacancies.
This was a major factor in the Trust facing an estimated deficit of more than £40 million.
Today (April 2) the health regulator announced the agreement of a one and two year financial recovery plan and a long term five year strategic plan for the future.
Roland Sinker, acting chief executive at the Trust, said: “As we always knew, building on and improving the care delivered to patients at the PRUH couldn’t happen overnight, and this has proved to be the case.
“We welcome the findings of Monitor’s investigation, and will continue to work with them to deliver our plans for the PRUH.
"Our priority is to improve services at the PRUH, and the Trust’s financial position."
Monitor will work closely with the Trust in making the improvements and will take further action if required.
The investigation covered the King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust as a whole.
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