Vale of Leven Hospital in Alexandria is again in the news as its maternity unit is under threat of closure. Local campaigners, led by MSP Jackie Baillie are hoping that the Scottish Government will use its powers under Major Service Change to guarantee the future of the birthing unit. Having used such powers to protect another nearby hospital, the government minister has not been willing to speak out on this matter in regards to the Alexandria hospital just yet. However the minister did say that her decision on this matter would be revealed before the end of December, indeed before the Health Board meeting on the 20th December to reveal their Plans.
The Major Service Change powers give the government the ability to veto any decisions that the health board make. Although no official announcement has been made, many of those who follow these things are of the opinion that the birthing unit in the Vale of Leven hospital is going to be closed and only government intervention, via Major Service Change protocols, can prevent this happening now.
The hospital’s supporters have had many battles in recent years as they attempt to keep services local, with the situation being that some services such as A&E are already a significant drive away at the RAH. Going by public transport is a minimum of a 45 minute bus journey (worse in rush hours) from Alexandria with residents of Helensburgh having to add at least another 20 minutes on top of that. Groups like these supporters can organise and educate through using local printers to produce leaflets detailing what is at stake and encouraging others to take action.Get a Free Quote for Plans
