McCarthy says Health Board should reconsider decision to close GP service

Alliance Health spokesperson Kieran McCarthy MLA has said that the Health Board should reconsider the closure of the GP services at the Holywood Arches health centre in East Belfast that specialised in ear, nose and throat services. When the 18 month pilot ended, waiting times at the Royal Victoria Hospital for these services has increased to 45 weeks.

Kieran McCarthy MLA said: “It was clear that when this service was operational that is was taking pressure off hospital staff and resources. The Health Board should look to restart this as a permanent service. It is inexcusable that this service was ended when it appeared to be working so well.

“As we look to transform our health system, we are trying to move people away from hospitals, so I cannot understand why this service was ended.

“I would hate to think that the health of the public has been ignored due to supposed inter department rivalry with the suggestion that officials did not like these GPs having so many resources and influence.

“I will be raising this issue at the Assembly’s Health Committee to seek answers as to why the decision was taken not to continue this service.”

ENDS