Published: Tuesday, 19th August, 2008 17:25
Breaking news: Vale maternity services saved
By Mike Farrell
Print Article
Vale of Leven Hospital
AS one long under-threat service was saved, plans have been revealed to introduce new facilities to the Vale of Leven Hospital.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (GGC) health chiefs officially decided today (Tuesday) that mothers could continue to give birth at the hospital.
Some details of a future for the Vale - including more money and new services - were also discussed.
The future of maternity and mental health services - two facilities at risk of closure - were secured.
After lengthy public consultation on proposed cuts to the Vale Community Midwifery Unit (CMU) and the Christie Ward in the mental health department, decisions were taken to save them for the immediate future.
Maternity services will be promoted for the next three years, while the board has now decided to reconsider cuts to mental health services at the long under-funded hospital.
Iain Robertson, West Dunbartonshire Council leader and member of GGC, said: " I am thoroughly delighted at this, which shows a very balanced judgement on behalf of the health board.
"It shows a clearer understanding of Dumbarton and the Vale."
Now, as part of the three-year scheme for the CMU, the unit aims to meet a target of 25 per cent of mothers in the hospital's catchment area choosing to give birth at the Vale.
Tom Divers, GGC chief executive, also announced that the £17 million Alexandria Medical Centre will be part of the future of the Vale, while he outlined possible additions to hospital services.
These included extending provision of kidney dialysis as well as providing dental and oral care at the Vale.
For full reaction and comprehensive report see next week's Reporter
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