Five days to comment on future of health service

Oct 3 2012 by Jenny Gray, Uxbridge Gazette

YOU have just five days to have your say on the future of the area’s health service.

The consultation on plans to reshape health care in north west London closes on October 8.

The proposals involve reclassifying some hospitals in Brent, Charing Cross, Ealing and Hammersmith from major to local units, which will result in the loss of a number of departments, including A&Es.

It may mean a rise in the number of people attending Hillingdon Hospital in Pield Heath Road, although NHS bosses hope that a new urgent care centre next door, which is also being proposed, will soak up some of the pressure.

Plans for more out-of-hospital care are also mooted, with a greater focus on people being looked after at home or being able to contact their GP for more services, possibly around the clock.

Some health groups, including Hillingdon Link, the borough’s health watchdog, have raised concerns about the out-of-hospital plans, saying they could stretch services which are already struggling without enough resources.

NHS North West London has held a number of roadshows since July and issued a consultation document, called Shaping A Healthier Future.

You can view it or respond online at: www.healthiernorthwestlondon.nhs.uk/have-your-say or call 0800 881 5209 for a printed copy and response form.

l Tell us what you told the review. Email jenny.gray@trinitymirror.com