MP reacts to more A&E delays

Created on 07/10/2016 @ 09:02

Montgomeryshire MP Glyn Davies has reacted strongly to news of more delays to plans on the future of an A&E unit in Shropshire that will affect patients in the Welshpool area.

It has emerged that a decision on a new structure of Shropshire NHS services will be delayed due to specific concerns about the programme’s decision making process.

Glyn Davies, MP for Montgomeryshire, has reacted with both concern and disappointment at news.

It follows David Evans, the Senior Responsible Officer for the Health Board’s ‘Future Fit’ Programme, announcing that due to recent specific concerns about the programme’s decision making process, the Programme Board is delaying its decision on a preferred option for the future of Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital’s for at least a month.

Commenting on latest position, Glyn Davies MP said: “Montgomeryshire depends on NHS A&E services in Shrewsbury Hospital.

“Over recent years it has become increasingly apparent that trying to sustain A&E services at both Shrewsbury and Telford means, in practice, that the capacity to deliver effective emergency care is under threat.

“Millions of pounds have been invested in meticulous research, consultation and calculation to establish a way forward that is best for the people of Shropshire and Mid Wales. It’s gone time for decisions and actions. We were expecting a clear recommendation about future direction yesterday. It is both disappointing and frustrating that a decision has been delayed yet again.

"Let it be understood. Any further delay is a threat to future NHS care for Shropshire and Mid Wales patients. I have always believed the only logical location for an 'Emergency Centre' is on the site of the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital.

"I accept that a decision to locate the 'Emergency Centre' at Shrewsbury will be seen as negative for Telford, though also believing this should not be the case. It is so disappointing that crucial reform is now being held up by threats of a judicial review, which could delay progress and put patients at risk into the future.

“We are being told that there will be a recommendation on the way forward made in time for public consultation before the end on this year. For the sake of future generations, I hope this turns out to be the case.”