Derek Thomas, the prospective Conservative MP for West Cornwall and The Isles of Scilly, today unveils his imaginative scheme for the St. Clare site in Penzance.
Derek believes there is a once in a lifetime opportunity to make use of the site for a state of the art Critical Illness Diagnostic Centre and Post-Operative Recovery Unit as well as housing all the services currently provided by the landlocked and cramped West Cornwall Hospital.
Derek’s proposal comes from the evidence showing early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of critical illnesses and the many stories we hear and read about where this has not happened with, often, tragic consequences. Derek also realizes that in today’s world it may be necessary for people to travel to large hospitals for specialist operations and procedures but that recovery should ideally be close to friends and families. Hence Derek’s idea for a state of the art facility offering this solution. This coupled with the relocation of West Cornwall Hospital to a larger more accessible site makes perfect sense and would be a fantastic community asset for the people of West Cornwall and The Isles of Scilly.
Derek Thomas said, “The availability of this site begs the question about the most pressing need facing the people of Penzance, West Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly? Medical care is advancing and our population increasing. We must grapple with how we deliver healthcare in an ambitious and radical way. I would like to see a new West Cornwall Hospital that does not have the restraints of an aged, landlocked building. I also want to see a state-of-the-art Diagnostic and Recovery Centre.”
The closure of the wards at Poltair Hospital, and subsequent consultation has reawakened the debate about healthcare services in West Cornwall. This solution proposed, by Derek Thomas, could bring an end to years of uncertainty and confusion about what and where services should be provided. Derek has asked for an urgent meeting with The Secretary of State on the matter and is contacting local health professionals, the Hospitals Trust and Cornwall Council to begin an exploratory dialogue to see if something can be progressed soon.
Derek continued “I recognize that this idea presents a huge challenge not least because of the sheer cost of such a scheme. However, if we get this right it will improve services and facilities for decades to come. I will pursue this until I am satisfied that we have fully investigated the feasibility of the plan.”
At the recent St. Clare consultation, attended by Derek Thomas, Cornwall Council confirmed that they will consider any possible use for the site and that NHS Properties had been in touch although they would not confirm the nature of their enquiry.
For further information please contact Derek Thomas on:
Mobile: 07974 797754. Office: 01736 366851
Email: [email protected]