PRESS STATEMENT
4 TH JULY 2005
Eight weeks ago the Cornishman’s front page carried the headline “New fears over the future of hospital”. Fresh concerns had emerged about a possible reduction in acute admissions and the withdrawal of specialist anaesthetists’ services, except for scheduled surgical sessions. It was felt that this would signal the end of West Cornwall Hospital as we know it – reduction to a Minor Injuries Unit, the loss of emergency admissions, the loss of High Dependency, etc., etc.
It is now becoming increasingly clear that this is very likely to happen, probably as early as the end of this month. Staff morale is in further decline, management are saying very little, and the prospects for the retention of many vital services seem bleak indeed. West Cornwall HealthWatch has again written to the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust seeking clarification of the situation, and reminding them of the reply still awaited – seven weeks later – about how the Trust has or has not sought to recruit anaesthetists to West Cornwall.
Spokesperson Marna Blundy said this week:
“I fear that time is running out for West Cornwall Hospital, and its condition is now critical.
We alerted readers to the situation two months ago, and we are now within days of losing these vital services unless the relentless tide can be turned. Readers should be in no doubt of what these new cuts will mean to them and to the entire community. Despite all the efforts of so many, we are on the brink of losing everything for which we have fought. Seven weeks ago, a good number of people responded with reason and common sense, calling clearly for the retention of these vital services – emergency medical and surgical admissions, 24 hour doctor-led A&E, High Dependency and so on. No-one seems to have taken any notice. I know that one day those in power will realise the stupidity of the course being taken today – but that will be cold comfort to the patients currently facing long travelling times, long delays, discomfort, deterioration or even death. So urgent action is needed now to prevent a sorry situation becoming a hopeless one.”
Those wishing to help take action should contact