This Is Guernsey

Beau Sejour Centre – two pharmacy technicians left the PEH to work here because the pay is better.

A MOTHER and premature baby recently forced by a lack of staff at the PEH pharmacy to be flown to the UK are not the only ones.

It emerged at the weekend that at least three mothers with premature babies have had to be treated off-island this year because of personnel shortages.

Two pharmacy technicians, who prepare premature infants’ intravenous feeds, recently left to be receptionists at Beau Sejour where the antisocial hours mean their take-home pay is more and the responsibility is much less, said Deputy Mike Hadley.

The Health Department board member has broken ranks to publicise the issue. An expectant mother was flown out last week, while others have faced the trip shortly after giving birth, adding to the risk and trauma they already face.

Deputy Hadley estimates the latest case will cost around £100,000. The mother is expected to give birth at 30 weeks.

The department confirmed on Friday that another case had cost £37,000 when intravenous feeds could not be prepared here.

‘These technicians have traditionally been considered to be “non-professional” although it takes about three years’ study on a day-release basis to qualify,’ said Deputy Hadley, a former community pharmacist.

‘They have to acquire a certain level NVQ. The job is not too high-tech but is a very responsible one. A mistake can cause the death of a baby. Because of this, very strict protocols are used and everything is checked by a second person.’

Pharmacy technicians were paid more here than in the UK, he said, so Housing was asked to grant a five-year licence to help recruitment. Deputy Hadley also pressed for a higher grading for the job.

‘An advertisement attracted 20 applicants – such a good response they would not regrade the post.

‘About half are considered not good enough to shortlist and all but two withdrew when they were made aware of housing costs.’

Those two would be interviewed this week, he said.

Deputy Hadley denied micromanaging the department instead of sticking to politics.

‘What my questions have shown is that by a wonderful combination of excessive bureaucracy involving Policy Council HR, PSRC and Housing we do have a serious staffing problem.’

Pharmacy staff shortages were unlikely to be resolved for many more months or years, he said.

Off island, over budget Page 2

Article posted on 17th November, 2008 - 2.30pm