Doctor defends plans to cut maternity

On Thursday night, Greg Wilcox, who is also the chair of Hastings and Rother PCT Professional Executive Committee, backed controversial plans to replace one of the existing maternity units with a midwife led centre.

Addressing the Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Dr Wilcox said: "My initial reaction to the proposals was that maintaining two specialist maternity units was the best option. That was my gut feeling and what my heart of hearts said.

"However, having looked in more detail at the plans and spoken to experts I believe a merger of the two sites would be more beneficial. Many of my colleagues have had a similar change of heart.

"I understand concerns about increased travel times for women in labour and the worry this could cause problems for women experiencing problems during birth but I believe the risks can be effectively managed.

"Most problems can be identified early on in the pregnancy so the risk to the majority of mothers is something which would not be affected by the longer journey.

"It would also increase the choice for prospective mothers giving them the option to book into the consultant led maternity unit or opt for a home birth or a midwife led unit.

"Choice is important. I have a genuine concern for my patients and if they opt for a consultant led unit I want to know they are getting the highest level of care available. This care would come from a single unit with a concentration of expertise and resources, not two independent sites."

The doctor also suggested that retaining two sites could lead to more out of county transfers because of lower staffing levels on each site, something he argued would involve far more travelling than the mooted 30-40 minute drive between Hastings and Eastbourne.

Dr Wilcox added: "I know a lot of people assume this decision is all about money but I can assure them it is not. It is as much about providing the best care possible.

"At the moment the units at both hospitals are working well but are they fit for the future? I would suggest not.

"Having to travel for specialist care is becoming increasingly common. I think doctors understand this and more and more patients are as well.

"The common opinion seems to be that the PCT has already made its mind up over which site to close. If it has, it has not told me. I can assure people it will listen to all the arguments before making a decision."

For a more in-depth report of today's meeting and reaction see next week's Observer and keep an eye on www.hastingsobserver.co.uk

What do you think about Dr Wilcox's comments?

Are you convinced a single maternity unit shared by Hastings and Eastbourne would improve standards? Leave your comments below.