Plans to consult on local community health services in Devon could mean the closure of community hospitals in the area.
The consultation will include proposals to close Ashburton, Bovey Tracy, Dartmouth and Paignton community hospitals. According to South Devon and Torbay CCG, the move will strengthen community-based services by allowing them investing more resources.
‘It’s taken a lot of discussion and planning to get us to this point and we’re now pleased to be able to consult on this important issue,’ said Dr Nick Roberts, chief clinical officer at the CCG. ‘We are keen to hear the people’s thoughts on community services that are affordable, will meet increasing health needs, and are clinically sound and sustainable.’
The closure of the hospitals would allow the CCG to provide more care in peoples homes, reflecting a shift in the organisation’s priorities. The proposals also state that the number of minor injury units in the area would be reduced, but those that remain would benefit from an enhanced service.
“The services we have in South Devon and Torbay cannot stay as they are. Times have changed, and so have people’s needs,’ added Dr Roberts. ‘A larger number of people are living longer, and with older age comes more complex healthcare needs – but, as we all know, the funds that are available can’t match this increasing need. No decisions will be made on the future shape of services until after the consultation and when all feedback and alternative proposals have been thoroughly considered.’
A consultation document will be published on 1 September, setting out the proposals and explaining the reasons for change and the benefits they bring.
‘The proposals are for a different way of providing care with more care delivered in or close to people’s homes,’ said Mairead McAlinden, chief executive at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust. ‘This will mean strengthening the community-based teams and services that most people use, so there is less reliance on hospital beds.