MP demands public consultation on proposed changes at DGH (Eastbourne and Willingdon Liberal Democrats)

Eastbourne and Willingdon Liberal Democrats <office@eastbournelibdems.org.uk>

MP demands public consultation on proposed changes at DGH

November 18, 2011 10:12 AM
Originally published by Stephen Lloyd MP

Recent announcements by the local NHS commissioning board (PCT) to downgrade cardiology services at Eastbourne DGH, have been met with dismay by the MP and local campaigners.

Stephen Lloyd MP said, "When I first heard the PCT were planning to reduce the opening times of the PCI unit (emergency heart department) at the DGH from 24/7 to 8-5pm, I expressed my strong concerns. Since then I have been informed that the changes do not have the support of the 9 cardiology consultants at the hospital trust, nor the staff from either the Eastbourne or Hastings site. The total lack of support from staff for this downgrade, along with the recent opening of a new Cath lab at the DGH, mean this decision seems utterly counter-productive."

He added, "I have written to the Chief Executive of the PCT, Amanda Fadero, and the Chairman of the Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Cllr Rupert Simmons, demanding a public consultation be held before any final decision is taken. The proposed cuts would have a significant impact on local cardiology services, so it is vital the public get the right to ask questions and to consider whether the decision really is the right one."