THE creation of a ‘supertrust’ merging the Oxford Radcliffe and Nuffield Orthopaedic can only be done with the all-important priority being an improvement in patient care.

Sir Jonathan Michael, chief executive of the ORH, says this is the main purpose but we would urge those in charge of this merger to make that their all-consuming mission statement.

Every available penny should be directed towards healthcare delivery rather than layers of management fat.