• Trusts are continuing to prepare for the possibility of a 'no deal' exit from the EU.
• Media outlets have been reporting that NHS trusts could "quickly run out of vital medicine" in the event of a 'no deal' Brexit.
• We published a briefing to support trusts' development of their 'no deal' Brexit contingency plans.
  
  

Commenting on NHS preparations for a 'no deal' Brexit, the deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, Saffron Cordery said:

"The increasing possibility of a no deal Brexit carries great uncertainty. This is a risk to NHS trusts and the way they carry out services for patients.

"Trusts are currently doing all they can to minimise any potential disruption. The NHS is used to planning for difficult situations. Trusts are following advice from government closely, but at this stage, they urgently need more clarity.

Trusts are following advice from government closely, but at this stage, they urgently need more clarity.

Saffron Cordery    Deputy Chief Executive

"Not enough has been done to reassure trusts about how effectively these national plans can be put in place before exit day.

"A disorderly Brexit could pose a risk to the supply of medicines and equipment. There would also be implications for staffing across vital health and care roles. We need clear and robust assurances that the continued, timely supply of medicines and equipment is protected.

We need clear and robust assurances that the continued, timely supply of medicines and equipment is protected.

Saffron Cordery    Deputy Chief Executive

"Individually each of these concerns would be serious but collectively they could have a substantial impact on the ability of trusts to continue to provide the same level of services and treatment for patients."