PCT Chief Executive Responds To Health Centre Concerns

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But does not rule out possibility of a polyclinic for Chiswick

In response to residents' concerns over the possibility of Chiswick Health Centre becoming a 'polyclinic', Hounslow PCT's Chief Executive John James said "We do not have, at this point, any specific plans for Chiswick Health Centre in relation to the polyclinic concept. However, we are clear that Chiswick Health Centre will need further expansion and improvement over the coming years."

He continued "I should also explain that we are currently in the process of updating our estates strategy for the Borough and will naturally take into account the position of Chiswick Health Centre, and other Health Centres in the Borough that are in a similar situation."

Concerns about the health centre's future were raised by both GPs and patients during the recent consultation undertaken by the body responsible for healthcare across London aimed at improving local health services.

The consultation included plans for a new look for local hospitals and the creation of polyclinics, which allow people to see a range of different health care specialists under one roof. However, some health care professionals did not welcome the idea of polyclinics beliving that they would inevitably lead to the closure of some local GP surgeries.

John James said, "If there are any specific plans to be developed for Chiswick Health Centre we will undertake a form of local consultation which could involve a number of different methods including the use of existing local groups, GP practices and users of Chiswick Health Centre, local involvement networks (LINKS) which are to be established from 1 April 2008 replacing the Patient and Public Involvement Forum, and public meetings."

March 13, 2008