Tuesday 18 May 2010

Members of Age Sector Platform raised concerns regarding the handling of the closure of services at Whiteabbey and Mid Ulster hospitals at a meeting held in Belfast yesterday; and expressed concerns regarding the capacity of Antrim Hospital in meeting the extra demand.

A spokesperson commented: “The quality of care older people receive in later life is a key concern for Age Sector Platform.  If services are to be reduced at Whiteabbey and Mid Ulster Hospitals following this process, it is essential that the Trust assures the public that services in Antrim Hospital are in place and are adequate to meet the increased demand.  While we recognise that health and social care provision is changing, it is vital that the standard of service and care does not decline during the transition period.”