Stroke Unit Closure "Dangerous," Says MP

A local member of parliament has called the proposed shutdown of a hyper-acute stroke unit "risky."

Last year, the Somerset NHS Integrated Care Board (ICB) approved the upcoming shutdown of the HASU at Yeovil District Hospital, intending to redirect individuals requiring immediate stroke treatment to either Taunton or Dorchester.

Adam Dance, the Member of Parliament for Yeovil, has once more urged that the decision be reversed, emphasizing that patient care and the promptness of treatment are key issues he is focused on.

A representative from the NHS Somerset Integrated Care Board stated that modifications to stroke care in the area would result in "improved urgent treatment and enhanced rehabilitation," and noted that the choice made was "the correct approach for residents of Somerset."

Dance mentioned that data from the South Western Ambulance Service indicated only 13% of stroke patients in Yeovil would receive treatment within the desired 180-minute timeframe if the current plans proceed, whereas this figure would rise to 74% if Yeovil District Hospital kept its unit.

"That poses a significant danger, which is why I am advocating for the call-in, as I believe this isn't correct," he said to Radio Somerset.

The acute care unit for strokes is at risk," "The stroke treatment facility faces challenges," "The specialized unit for stroke patients is in danger," "The department dedicated to treating strokes is being threatened," "The hospital’s stroke service is vulnerable," "The team responsible for stroke cases is under pressure," "The center focused on stroke care is facing difficulties," "The ward specializing in stroke management is at stake," "The area of the hospital dealing with stroke emergencies is endangered," "The division handling stroke victims is experiencing threats. then the maternity unit, and now t the closing of local beds at Crewkerne "...it's a concerning period for locals," he further remarked.

Dance stated he was urging both the government and NHS Somerset to reconsider their choice.

A representative from NHS Somerset ICB stated that the organization "continued to support" the reforms, which are expected to result in fewer deaths or severe disabilities.

After receiving urgent stroke treatment, individuals residing in the southern part of Somerset will be eligible for further immediate stroke care at Yeovil District Hospital.

"Significant effort has been invested in this program, along with highly beneficial contributions from medical professionals, team members, individuals who have had strokes, and their family members," the representative added.

The facility will stay operational until the NHS is assured it can function effectively in Dorchester and Taunton, according to the ICB.

The Ministry of Health and Social Care has been contacted for a response.

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More on this story

• "Unreasonable decision" in final strike unit, claim advocates
• Demands for an investigation regarding the closing of the stroke unit
• State refuses requests to maintain stroke care department Authorities turn down demands to preserve stroke treatment center Officials dismiss appeals to keep stroke unit operational Administration declines pressure to retain stroke unit services Leadership rebuffs efforts to sustain stroke unit operations

Related internet links

• NHS Somerset ICB

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