Report
to the People
10th
February 2003
Saving our Services
In an area like Inverclyde, with low birth weights and generally poor public health, high quality local health services are key to health improvement.
And while politicians – myself included – tell you that you shouldn’t believe everything you read in the press (with the obvious exception of this column, of course), I should take a moment to congratulate the Telegraph on it’s clear backing for the retention of maternity services at the Rankin.
The future of maternity services is firmly tied to the future of other local health services, from paediatrics to gynaecology. The briefest glance at what’s happening at the Vale of Leven tells us that.
However, only by knowing the issues inside out will we be able to effectively argue our corner. And by getting its weight behind this campaign, the Telegraph has made this considerably easier.
So what are the issues?
I’ve lost count of the number of meetings I’ve had over the past few weeks with key players – consultants, management, GPs, unions, midwives and others – in this process. While, as you would expect, their points of view differ, not a single one has said to me, "if only we had and an extra couple of million pounds." In fact, speaking frankly, if it was simply a case of finding some more cash, sorting this situation out would be comparatively straightforward.
The problem facing us is far more complex.
When the unit was last under threat two years ago, it was the number of consultants which was the issue. As a result of our hard fought campaign, though, we secured an extra consultant and the continuation of services at the Rankin. Now, however, it’s the lack of junior clinicians which is apparently the danger.
This is a crucial point in this debate. While those taking the decision are in no doubt about my views on the subject, we again need to make sure that they are equally clear about what this community thinks.
And it couldn’t be simpler.
As some of you may have noticed at church on Sunday, you can sign a new petition voicing your support for the Rankin. You can also write to the new health board boss, or simply add your name to a standard letter we have had specially prepared (see below).
It is regrettable that we find ourselves back in this position. But if we work together to make the case, the worst is not inevitable.
Campaign packs are available now by calling the Rankin Campaign Hotline on (01475) 791 823. Alternatively, you can download your own pack here.
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