Damian released the following statement today in relation to the decision by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight NHS Trust to close the Anstey Ward at Alton Community Hospital, and transfer resources to its 'at home' patient rehabilitation service:
“I understand the principle of people being cared for in their own homes after time in hospital, so called ‘home based rehabilitation’, which is often the patient’s preference and can help them regain their independence. However, there remains a clear need for community beds for those who need them in Alton and the surrounding area – whether that be patients ‘stepping down’ from hospital, those being ‘stepped up’ by their GPs or those requiring end of life care.
“I have heard from patients and staff, and it is clear how highly this facility is valued by the local community. It is particularly important for people being discharged from large hospitals, such as Basingstoke, to ensure they are not kept in an acute hospital longer than necessary. I will be keeping a close eye on how these proposals are implemented and welcome the Trust’s commitment to report on progress at the Health and Adult Social Care (HASC) meeting in March, as it is vital that there are no negative consequences from the closure of the Anstey Ward.”
