My delight at healthcare decision (From Chorley Citizen)

My delight at healthcare decision

11:48am Wednesday 28th February 2007 in

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In recent months a significant portion of my time has been dedicated towards the future of our local hospital in relation to the introduction of the new Clinical Assessment, Treatment and Support (CATS) service.

From the beginning of the campaign regarding the future of healthcare my view was simple - keep it local and keep it in public hands.

We have now achieved this aim following much hard work and effective lobbying from various groups.

Lancashire Teaching Hospitals Trust, Unison, Chorley Churches Together and members of the public have all played there in part in ensuring that the future of our hospital is not put under threat.

The PCT and Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust have now negotiated the establishment of CATS at Chorley Hospital, run by the hospital, funded by the NHS and staffed by the nurses and doctors from Chorley District Hospital, meaning that private sector CATS will not be established in Chorley.

This is a groundbreaking achievement in Chorley.

I am delighted that Central Lancashire Primary Care Trust has listened to the views of the people of Chorley and has respected those and responded accordingly.

The proposal to establish a CATS centre run by NHS is the first agreement of its kind in the country and it gives health bosses in Central Lancashire the opportunity to showcase how the NHS can be adapted to meet local demand.