18.09.18
Plans to cut three acute stroke units unveiled amid ‘time of uncertainty’
The NHS system in Kent and Medway has today published its plans for three new specialist ‘hyper acute stroke units’ (HASUs) which are set to replace the six stroke facilities in the region.
The proposals will see six stroke units replaced with three new HASUs. Medway NHS FT will lose its stroke services after not being identified as one of the preferred choices.
The preferred option, set out by local commissioners, is to have HASUs at Darent Valley Hospital in Dartford, Maidstone Hospital and William Harvey Hospital in Ashford, which West Kent CCG says will allow specialist stroke staff to more consistently deliver high-quality care around the clock.
The Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, Hospital in Margate had already been expected to lose its services, but Medway FT had hoped to retain its stroke services at the expense of Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust, which is closer to London.
This preferred option was chosen following a four-year review, a public consultation, and further detailed evaluation of five shortlisted options. It was announced following a workshop which involved representatives from all 10 affected CCGs.
In a statement, Medway FT said “naturally we are very disappointed” that it hadn’t been chosen as one of the locations of a HASU despite “having presented a strong case.”
“We know this will be disappointing to staff, and to patients,” it added. “However, what’s important now is that we will work with commissioners and other providers to do the best for patients, ensuring that the services we provide assist the recovery of stroke patients.”
The preferred option will now be considered by a number of bodies, including NHS Improvement, NHS England and the joint health overview and scrutiny committee.
Patricia Davies, the senior responsible officer for the Kent and Medway Stroke Review, said: “Today’s announcement is an important step in the stroke review process.
“I appreciate this is a time of uncertainty, but I believe there is an exciting future for everyone working in stroke services across Kent and Medway. The identification of a preferred option brings us closer to being able to deliver the first class care our stroke teams strive for.”
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