Marcus Jones, the MP for Nuneaton, has welcomed the decision of The Arden Cluster to implement the proposal of clinicians to implement a new model of care for children’s service at George Eliot Hospital following a three month public consultation.

Marcus has also welcomed the news that a new short stay paediatric assessment unit will be established at the hospital and there will be no changes to maternity services or to the Special Care Baby Unit. It is anticipated that the new model of care will be in place for 1st April 2013.

Following concerns raised by the MP in relation to proposed changes to inpatient paediatric services, he has also welcomed the new ‘Delivery Board’ that has been established to address some key issues raised by local people during the consultation, including reviewing the ‘blue light’ policy.  This currently means that all children from north Warwickshire who need an ambulance are automatically taken to the University Hospital in Coventry. In addition, the Board will look at introducing clinical protocols for children transferred between hospitals, in an effort to make the process smoother for families. 

The new approach involves the transfer of inpatient paediatrics from George Eliot Hospital to University Hospital in Coventry.

Commenting on the announcement, Marcus said: “Having had two children born at the George Eliot, I am aware of the need to retain these services at the hospital which play a vital role in providing care to local people. I am therefore delighted that the Arden Cluster has listened to local clinicians and local people and has been willing to accept the proposal put forward by the hospital. This has been an issue of significant concern and I am glad to see that it is being resolved.

“Having used the inpatient paediatric service at the hospital recently, I regret the decision to no longer offer the service. However, I respect the clinical view which has been endorsed by local clinicians and the Royal College of Paediatricians. I have been concerned about how the transition of inpatient paediatrics will take place and am therefore glad that the delivery board has been established to try and address these issues.

“The announcement from the Arden Cluster is one I certainly welcome and I hope the end of the process will provide reassurance to local people that the hospital is committed to providing the very best children’s services to local families.”