News that two hospitals in Glasgow are using iPods to induct new staff will do little to reassure the public that the record extra investment in the NHS has been well spent, writes David Batty.
Granted, the Scottish NHS is not facing peak deficits as in England, where debts are predicted to top £900m this financial year and more than 4,000 jobs have been cut in the past fortnight. But is buying MP3 players the most cost-effective way to give new recruits a tour of the wards - wouldn't a map be cheaper? And can an audio induction really prepare staff for dealing with violent patients or tackling superbugs such as MRSA?
NHS Greater Glasgow claims the scheme "is a prudent use of public money". But managers refused to say how many iPods have been bought, how much they cost and how they can be better value for money than printed information.
With other NHS trusts across the UK apparently interested in adopting the scheme, here's a suggested track list for the health secretary, Patricia Hewitt.
Money's Too Tight to Mention - Simply Red
Money for Nothing - Dire Straits
The First Cut is the Deepest - PP Arnold
Material Girl - Madonna
Money (That's What I Want) - The Flying Lizards
Gimme Some Money - Spinal Tap
Brother Can You Spare a Dime - Bing Crosby
