MSP concerned by PRI surgery move
The political backlash against the decision to axe emergency weekend surgery at Perth Royal Infirmary has begun with a call to ensure such frontline services are protected despite the public spending squeeze.
- By Alan Richardson
- Published in the Courier : 14.07.10
- Published online : 14.07.10 @ 08.39am
NHS Tayside is blaming staff shortages on a decision to stop emergency surgical admissions at PRI between 6pm on Friday and 8am on Monday.
Mid Scotland and Fife Conservative MSP Liz Smith said she has written to Nicola Sturgeon expressing her concerns.
She said, "I am very concerned that patient emergency surgery is being cut during certain hours at Perth Royal Infirmary.
"I have today written to Cabinet Secretary for Health, Nicola Sturgeon asking for guarantees that patient care will be safeguarded.
"I fully appreciate budgetary constraints are an important issue within NHS services but emergency services are surely a frontline priority, and as such protected.
"I will be seeking assurances from the SNP Scottish Government and NHS Tayside that no decisions will be taken which will seriously undermine patient care.
"PRI has faced the threat of reduced services in the past including the threat of losing the maternity unit. I, along with Conservative colleagues, will fight any moves which threaten the future of PRI."
NHS Tayside associate medical director for the surgical directorate Dr John Colvin said, "This only affects a very small number of patients. On average, we have five admissions per week over that period and, of these admissions, between one and two require a surgical procedure.
"These patients will be transferred to Ninewells by ambulance.
"We can also assure the Perthshire population that consultant surgical cover of patients in Perth Royal Infirmary continues to be provided at all times."
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