Published: Tuesday, 19th August, 2008 10:30
Has the tide finally turned for the Vale?
By Mike Farrell
Print Article
Vale of Leven Hospital
THERE have been more positive developments in the ongoing fight to save services at the Vale of Leven Hospital this week.
After last week’s apparent “U-turn” on maternity services by the health board — which might now be persuaded to retain the birthing facilities at the Vale — the same could be in store for Unscheduled Medical Admissions (UMA).
Proposals to keep the Vale’s midwifery unit open go before health bosses today (Tuesday) and the outcome of that decision will be a definite gauge of any change in attitude of the Greater Glasgow and Clyde (GGC) health board.
However, regardless of the outcome of that meeting, it is almost certain that the entire direction of an impending public consultation on whether to continue to allow UMAs at the Vale will now likely be revised.
New recommendations by an independent inquiry team into UMAs advise the service should be retained.
However, the report says that the facility for anaesthetic provision is “unsustainable”.
If this facility is lost it would mean those needing it will be sent to the Royal Alexandra Hospital, in Paisley.
Jim Moohan, of Hospitalwatch, believes that although the review was positive, the proposed removal of anaesthetic care is not.
He told the Reporter: “It is a double-edged sword — partly very positive, but we will have to continue to argue the case for anaesthetists on site."
Unscheduled Medical Admissions was the third service threatened with closure at the hospital by GGC, after mental health and maternity facilities.
The inquiry says UMAs should continue for those who have been assessed by a doctor.
Tom Divers, GGC chief executive said: “It is now for this board to take forward these new ideas to help inform a consultation that will secure a sustainable and safe long term future for the hospital backed with a programme of investment."
This life injection for the flagging hospital comes as another vital service at the Vale looks likely to be saved.
For more on the Vale see this week's Reporter, in shops now
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