Major NHS debate launched

THE largest-ever public debate on Warrington’s £265 million health care services has been launched.
Residents are being urged to have their say on what improvements they would like to see made to create “a healthier Warrington”.
This could be anything from new health care facilities to better access to services and reduced waiting times.
More than 100,000 questionnaires will be sent to homes across the borough as part of the initiative.
Chief executive of Warrington Primary Care Trust, Andrew Burgess said: “We would like to encourage as many people as possible to take part in the Healthier Warrington debate.
“The responses from the people of Warrington will help to determine future NHS spending priorities as well as how services are delivered in the future.
“We want to know what Warrington people want and expect from their local NHS.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to develop the very best possible health services for the people of Warrington so it is essential that as many people as possible take part.” Only last year, the PCT launched a consultation programme on controversial plans to replace the majority of GP practices in Warrington with five “super health centres” which would be open from 6am to 10pm daily, staffed by GPs and other health professionals.
But the scheme was scrapped after an outcry from the public and by GPs who claimed they had not been consulted.
This time the Trust is determined to involve everyone in the consultation from the start.
Chairman John Gartside said: “We are really keen for as many Warrington folk as possible to get involved with this as we regard the £265 million funding to be from them.
“Getting to know what ideas people have got is important, especially from groups who may not use their local GP surgery, such as young people. We want to know how to reach people and the best way to do that is by asking them.
“A big issue is continuing care with the same range of people, such as nurses and doctors. That is something we have been made aware of already.
“We know how strongly people feel about their health service. This is not about saving money. It is spending it in areas people feel need it most.” Representatives from GPs, the Warrington Carers Centre, the Older People’s Engagement Group and the Patient Champion for LINKs – Local Involvement Networks – were all present at the launch event. All backed the proposals to get residents involved.
Questionnaires will be sent to every resident and everyone who completes one will be entered into a free prize draw for a mountain bike, a free 12 month membership at a Warrington gym and a unique pamper day.
For more information about the A “Healthier Warrington” scheme log on to www.ahealthierwarrington.org.uk or call 0800 389 6973.