Plans to close North Tees Accident and Emergency Department are as unclear and uncertain as they were months ago, according to Stockton North MP Alex Cunningham.
Concerns are circulating amongst Stockton North residents that the planned closure to the North Tees A&E Department will be going ahead, raising worries amongst residents that they will have to travel significantly further to receive emergency care should they need it.
Prior to the election being called, Alex wrote to the Secretary of State for Health seeking clarification on the Government’s plans, but has yet to receive a response. As a result, Alex has now written to the Chief Executive of North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust looking for clarification about any proposals for the future of the department.
In his letter to the Chief Executive, Alex wrote:
“I have received correspondence from a number of my constituents in Stockton North who are concerned that the A&E at North Tees hospital will be closed, and are worried about the effect it would have on them should they need emergency care due to the long and unreasonable distance to the next closest Accident and Emergency department.
As you may know, this was one of my key pledges during my re-election campaign and I am determined to make sure that my constituents voices are heard on this important matter.”
Commenting on his letter, Alex said:
“I know that this is a huge issue of importance to my constituents, and I am determined to be as transparent as possible. The Government have been dragging their feet on this and leaving people in the darkness about their local services.”
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For more information please contact Alex Cunningham on 01642 345291.