A public meeting is scheduled to address the controversial decision to keep a maternity unit closed in the west of Dumfries and Galloway. The region’s Integration Joint Board opted not to reopen the Clenoch Centre at Galloway Community Hospital in Stranraer, citing a shortage of staff since its closure in 2018. Campaigners have expressed outrage at this decision, particularly as an independent review recommended enhancing the current model with on-call birthing services for low-risk births at the hospital.
The Galloway Community Hospital Action Group is calling for a strong turnout at the public meeting in Stranraer Library, with concerns raised about the safety of expectant mothers and babies having to travel long distances on the hazardous A75 road for medical care. The group is adamant about holding the Integration Joint Board accountable for their choice to disregard the preferred option identified by the expert review panel.
Although the public consultation aligned with the review’s recommendations, health and social care staff supported maintaining the status quo, emphasising the availability of home births and concerns about inequality in service provision. The decision to uphold the current arrangement was acknowledged to be a difficult one by the IJB chairman, Andy McFarlane, who emphasised the board’s dedication to patient-centered care.
Following the decision, local MSP Finlay Carson has urged Health Secretary Neil Gray to investigate the matter. In addition, the hospital action group, along with Councillor Willie Scobie, has called on elected officials to challenge what they deem as a disappointing and unacceptable resolution. The group is prepared to escalate the issue to the Scottish Parliament to highlight the disparities in maternity services experienced in rural areas.
In light of the growing discontent and concerns regarding accessibility and safety in maternity care, the public meeting aims to address the pressing need for accountability and equitable healthcare services for the local community. The outcome of this meeting could potentially influence the future direction of maternity care in the region, highlighting the critical importance of local engagement and advocacy in healthcare decision-making processes.