Like many of you, I have been disturbed by recent stories about the future of Heatherwood Hospital in Ascot.  It is a local asset to all those that use its facilities and I would be extremely worried if it was to close.

 

It seems that the Primary Care Trust (PCT), who purchase health services and treatments from Heatherwood Hospital on behalf of patients across Berkshire, have decided to reconsider from whom they buy their services.  Their decisions will clearly have an impact on Heatherwood Hospital.

 

What is now important is that the PCT are clear and open about their plans.  Residents need to be aware of what is going on and what is being considered.

 

The PCT is taking a decision on Heatherwood which it says will help save £21m in East Berkshire.  But they need to ensure they have made the necessary internal savings before taking this decision and it is imperative local communities see the evidence of this taking place.

 

If you have not done so already, I would encourage you to make your views and experiences known to the PCT.  In addition, Heatherwood and Wexham Park Hospitals NHS Trust will be running a consultation later in the year and I would again urge you to contribute.

 

I am in active and regular contact and communication with the NHS Trusts and other local healthcare bodies, through which I have raised the specific concerns of constituents and will continue to do so.   Heatherwood and local healthcare are issues that matter to all of us.