There’s no more controversial decision the NHS makes than removing services from hospitals, or even closing them. To investigate the causes and consequences of that kind of change, on Friday the Guardian is spending the day at the Royal Brompton hospital, where NHS England has said that, subject to public consultation, it will stop paying for congenital heart disease services.
The hospital and its supporters say that it makes no sense to close the service, which it describes as among the best in the country. But advocates of the change say that concentrating services in fewer locations makes for better care, and that the Royal Brompton doesn’t meet agreed standards.
The Royal Brompton isn’t the only hospital affected. Newcastle, Manchester and Glenfield hospital in Leicester are facing the same proposals. More generally, NHS England’s sustainability and transformation plans (STPs) are likely to mean the closure of 19 hospitals, including five major acute hospitals. Some experts say that this is an essential part of moving the fulcrum of the NHS from hospitals to a new set of community services integrated with social care - a move they say is vital for the health of patients and the NHS alike. But others say it’s just cover for swingeing cuts.
As part of our coverage on Friday, we want to hear from our readers. Is your hospital being affected? What are your concerns? Can you understand the rationale behind the plans? Do you think you or your child could have received better care, or do you worry about the loss of local services? If you work at a hospital, are you worried about the plans, or do you believe they will raise the standard of care?
Share your stories and concerns.
