Whittington Hospital governors ‘struggling’ to see how closure benefits patients

Published: 8 April 2010
by TOM FOOT

GOVERNORS at the Whittington Hospital have spoken out against proposals to shut down their accident and emergency department.

Chairman Ron Jacob said governors were “struggling” to see how the changes would benefit patients.

NHS bosses have proposed seven scenarios for the hospital – two include closing the A&E and other surgical departments.

In a circular to staff at the hospital, Mr Jacobs said: “We are fully aware of the intensity of feelings amongst the public. We recognise that closure of the A&E may impact on the access of local people to emergency or urgent care, on other services provided by the Whittington and on the service of other nearby hospitals such as the Royal Free. 

“We are concerned that the alternatives that have been proposed by NCL may not be fully supported by evidence of their clinical or financial efficacy.”

His comments follow last month’s joint statement from all of the consultants at the hospital. They said closing the A&E was “not in the best interests of patients”. 

Leading politicians from all the major political parties have condemned the proposals and thousands marched through Islington in February in an unprecedented show of support for the hospital.

Whittington chief executive Rob Larkman said: “It is gratifying to witness such a large public expression of support for the hospital. We are working very hard to make sure the Whittington continues to provide the best possible service to patients in a caring environment.”

But the fight is by far from over. 

At a meeting, last week the NHS chief executive Rachel Tyndall said she was determined to continue ahead as planned.

The Defend Whittington Hospital Coalition has announced details of a second mass day of action on April 27 outside the Whittington from 12-2pm.

For more information visit www.dwhc.org