Rugby MP Mark Pawsey has taken a cross-party delegation from Rugby to a meeting with Health Minister, Simon Burns, at the Department for Health to consider the decision by University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust to close Birch Ward at the Hospital of St Cross in Rugby
Speaking after the meeting Mark said:
“We made it clear about the strong concerns in Rugby over the closure of Birch Ward. The Minister acknowledged that there had not been effective engagement with local people on this matter and understands concerns about when the Ward will reopen. He has accepted the clinical arguments UHCW have put forward for the closure of Birch Ward and he drew attention in our discussions to there having been a drop in elective surgery and an increase in levels of care in the home. “
Mark continued:
“The Minister accepts the need for greater engagement with local communities when changes in health care are considered. I welcome the Minister’s comments and look forward to greater participation between the people of Rugby and Hospital authorities when changes in healthcare provision are being considered. I remain determined to ensure no further reductions in services at our local hospital.”