RESIDENTS of south and west Dorset will get the chance to learn more about a major review into the NHS at a series of events held in the region next month.
The NHS Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group (Dorset CCG) will host the events in Dorchester and Sturminster Newton in December as part of the organisation’s review into the way every aspect of healthcare, excluding dentistry, is provided in the county.
A major review into the way healthcare is provided in Dorset was launched by the CCG in October, in a bid to make the service more efficient in the face of changing healthcare needs across the county and to help cut costs.
As reported in the Dorset Echo, the review has recently been criticised after it was revealed it will cost the NHS £2.75million and campaigners say there are fears the review will lead to privatisation within the service and members of the public are being encouraged to attend the information events.
The review grew out of last summer’s Big Ask, a survey which asked the public about their experiences of the NHS.
The first phase of the review will run until spring 2015, before a public consultation on any proposed changes begins next summer. Any proposed changes could be introduced as early as next autumn.
Dr Forbes Watson, chairman of NHS Dorset CCG, said: “I hope local people will take the opportunity to come along in December and hear about the evidence we have collected about patients’ needs, clinical performance and finances that demonstrate why changes to current services are essential.”
He added: “We want people to tell us if the Case for Change is clear and understandable, and if there is additional information that we need to consider.”
Three information events will be held in the second week of December, with the first taking place at the Barrington Centre in Ferndown on December 8, starting at 6pm.
On December 10, another event will be held at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton between 10am and midday and the third event will be held at Herrison Hall in Charlton Down on Thursday, December 11 between 2.30pm and 4.30pm. The events are free but places need to be booked before. To book your place call 01305 368900 or email involve@dorsetccg.nhs.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel