THE Friends of Okehampton Hospital are due to meet the Northern, Eastern and Western Devon Clinical Commissioning Group, (NEW Devon CCG) — the organisation about to hold a public consultation on potential community hospital bed closures — on Tuesday, October 11 in Plymouth.

Last Wednesday, NEW Devon CCG made the decision to launch a consultation on a proposal to cut half of the community hospital in-patient beds across its eastern locality.

The CCG is considering five options which would keep beds at Tiverton Hospital and two other hospitals out of Sidmouth, Exmouth, Seaton or Whipton. The fifth option allows the public to present their preferred option of healthcare in the area, including the retention of beds at Okehampton Hospital.

Originally, the CCG was only going to review the four options that included retention of beds at Tiverton Hospital. The consultation launches officially tomorrow (Friday, October 7).

The Friends chairman Martin Perry said in a statement today (Thursday) that despite the board’s original decision not to reconsider Okehampton’s case, the introduction of the fifth option he would raise the issue again now it seems there is a possibility to review that decision.

’The demonstration last Saturday was impressive and showed the degree of support the hospital has and we hope some of those who feel strongly will join the Friends to strengthen our case. Only with a large membership can we justifiably represent the interests of the community in and around the town.

’The hospital was built in 2004 by virtue of the huge number of residents that contributed to the cost with both large and small donations. This additional money ran to some £250,000 and paid for a substantial part of the building.

’We do not intend to reiterate the arguments for retaining the beds here as they have been fully explained to the CCG previously and at their board meeting on September 28, our pleas were turned down.

’If however, that decision is now in some doubt then we will pursue this. We will be seeking reassurances regarding the enhanced community services that will be required for patients that are to be transferred elsewhere or sent home. Our committee remains sceptical that these provisions will be adequate.

’The community and critical care nurses working out of the hospital at present are a very impressive and dedicated team that we have the highest regard for but the new scenario the CCG are presenting is a totally different ball game. There are huge budgetary considerations too which I trust the CCG are aware of.

’I will also be looking for confirmation that the minor injuries unit will be moving back into the hospital as promised once a suitable consortium of medical practises has been established.

’Once again I would ask supporters of the hospital to simply become members of the Friends by donating £10 a year, which will all help to enhance the strength of our voice in these discussions that we hold regularly with the CCG and others. There will be no meetings to attend or committees to join unless you want to.’

To find out more on how to join, call Ann Lane on 01837 659671.