Hazzard says health transformation should not be a managed decline in our health services
South Down MP Chris Hazzard speaking at the launch of the Down Community Health Committee meeting in Downpatrick’s St Patrick Centre, said: “As a local resident, and a representative of our local community, I am privileged as always to join with the Down Community Health Committee in launching this public appeal to protect and enhance services at the Downe Hospital.
“Given the mounting evidence now available, it is an undeniable, unjustifiable and unacceptable fact that our local community does not enjoy equal access to health services that other citizens across the North of Ireland take for granted.
Photo by JimMasson/DownNews©).
“In the absence of a ‘rights-based entitlement framework’ the ongoing transformation of the health and social care system is not meeting the healthcare needs of rural citizens – especially in places such as South Down.
“Health transformation must not be the managed decline of local health services, but rather the reconfiguration of resources to meet the needs of all patients – irregardless of where you live.
“With modern facilities and dedicated staff on-site, the South Eastern Trust should utilise the Downe to help meet the needs of our local community, and simultaneously alleviate the growing pressure on the Ulster Hospital in Belfast.”
Other speakers from the wider Downpatrick area included representatives from community, local politicians, retired health professionals, and long-term health campaigners also spoke at the launch meeting.
