Healthcare in North Wales is changing – People urged to ‘Join the Debate’

This gives people a chance to have their say on the Health Board’s proposals to improve services across North Wales.  The consultation closes on 28^th October 2012 and the Health Board is keen for as many people as possible to share their views as part of the process.

 

The Health Board’s Executive Director of Planning, Neil Bradshaw said: “We have already had many people coming forward to offer their views, take part in debates and suggest alternative approaches. We have been pleased with the lively and robust debate we have had so far. As the consultation period draws to a close, we want to take this opportunity to encourage as many people as possible to share their views and opinions with us before the Health Board makes any decisions.”

 

The key areas for consultation are:

·         Healthcare services where you live (Localities and Community services)

·         Older People Mental Health services

·         Neonatal Intensive Care

·         Vascular and Major Arterial surgery

 

Over the last three years, GPs, hospital doctors, nurses and other health professionals have worked together to consider how they could make healthcare services better for the people of North Wales. 

 

Many people with an interest in the NHS have been involved such as patients, service users, carers, volunteers, community groups, local authorities and many others.

 

They have told the Health board what they value – being treated with dignity and respect, having information that helps them to make a choice, and not being ‘bounced’ around the NHS and social care when they or their families are most vulnerable.  This dialogue and engagement has led to the proposals in the consultation document. 

 

Chief Executive Mary Burrows added “The Health Board is clear that we cannot afford to stand still. The status quo is not an option. The proposals we are now making are intended to change the way in which services are provided and where they are provided to meet quality standards. 

 

Our aim is to improve health, not just extend life.  We believe that services should be close to where people live whenever it is safe and appropriate.  When more specialist care is needed, hospitals must be centres of excellence so the best possible care is available when needed and from the right people.”

The proposals will allow us to attract and retain the professional clinical staff we need and control our costs when public finances are decreasing.”

The consultation exercise runs until 28^th October, 2012. The Health Board will also take account of the views of the Community Health Council and any views they have heard.  If the Board decides to go ahead with proposals, changes will start in early 2013 with the aim of finishing the changes by 2015. 

 

Consultation responses can be made and more information is available:-

·      online at www.bcuhbjointhedebate.wales.nhs.uk and completing the online questionnaire

·      by emailing jointhedebate@wales.nhs.uk

·      by calling Freephone 0800 678 5297

 

A large print version or other formats or languages are available on request from Freephone 0800 678 5297 or email at jointhedebate@wales.nhs.uk.

 

You can also give your comments to the Community Health Council, your independent NHS Watchdog. You can give your views in confidence at yourvoice@bcchc.org.uk or by telephone on 01248 679284.

 

 

For further information please contact the BCU Press Desk on 01248 384776.

Email bcuhbpressdesk@wales.nhs.uk