Big questions remain.
The MP for Boston said there is “still concern” in the town over the future of Pilgrim Hospital’s children’s services.
United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust put the paediatrics ward under review following concerns over staffing shortages, but has since taken measures to keep it open.
An ‘interim model’ will be put in place in August in an effort to continue providing the service until a long term solution is found.
But, Matt Warman MP said there is still concern among those who will be affected by the change in the service.
“I think there is still concern and that’s because we are losing a small part of the broader service,” he said.
“People are right to be reassured that 98% of patients will still be able to use the services at Pilgrim and that is a good thing.
“But for the small number of people who are profoundly affected we need to make sure there is investment in transport and communicating to people so they go to the right places.”
Boston Pilgrim Hospital. Picture: Steve Smailes
Board members at ULHT passed measures back in June to keep the service running on a short term model until the end of the year.
The service will be run with the back-up of short-term agency staff, many on occasional shifts, but funding has also been approved for two additional locum doctors.
It also means some services will be slightly changed and some babies and children will be transferred to other sites.
Contingency plans are also being carried out to provide more space at Lincoln County Hospital should the plan at Boston fail.
ULHT have said their aim has always been to maintain the service at Pilgrim and to keep patients safe.
Whatsapp
