Review Into Possible Ward Closure Begins...

6 January 2011, 12:12 | Updated: 6 January 2011, 12:14

Review begins into the closure of the G5 End of Life Care Ward at the Queen Alexandra Hospital.

The IRP, the independent expert on NHS service change, is carrying out a review to consider whether the closure of the G5 End of Life Care Ward at the Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth enables the provision of safe, sustainable and accessible end of life care for the local population. 

The Health Secretary, Rt Hon Andrew Lansley MP, has asked for a full review following a referral from Portsmouth City Council’s Health Overview and Scrutiny Panel.

As part of our review, we would like to hear from all interested parties in Portsmouth particularly those who have new evidence to offer or feel that their voice has not been heard, including patients, local residents, local authority representatives, interest groups, clinicians and other staff.  Please contact us by email at: info@irpanel.org.uk or by calling 0207 045 4844.

It is important that our reviews are open and accountable to local communities.  We will therefore publish our findings on our website - www.irpanel.org.uk - once they have been considered by the Health Secretary.

The IRP will make recommendations to the Health Secretary by 31 March 2011 in relation to the changes. The final decision on changes to services in the area will be made by the Health Secretary.