Graham Stuart, Member of Parliament for Beverley and Holderness, has written to the NHS to call for improvements in the use of space in Withernsea Community Hospital.
During his recent visit to the hospital Graham, together with Councillor Lyn Healing and Councillor Sean McMaster, recommended plans should be in place to use the under-utilised rooms in the hospital for virtual consultations. It takes two hours to travel from Withernsea to Hull Royal Infirmary and Castle Hill Hospital so this would be one way of reducing the need for local people to make this journey, making a huge difference to them.
Concerns over the under-utilisation of the X-Ray Department were also raised. Graham and the local ward Councillors are aware that although the equipment is on site, it is only used one or two days a week due to a lack of staff available to operate it. It is important that the people of Withernsea have the X-Rays they require close to home as soon as possible following referral, which is why Graham has asked how this equipment can be used on a more frequent basis.
While some progress is being made to improve dentistry in the East Riding, Graham, Cllr Healing and Councillor McMaster are disappointed that the dental service at the hospital has on occasion only been available two days a week. In South East Holderness, there are cases of children suffering chronic dental problems and elderly people not being able to access the treatment they need. People of all ages are right to expect treatment that is timely and affordable. That is why Graham has pushed for plans to increase the use of the dental service at Withernsea Community Hospital to five days a week.
South East Holderness Ward Councillors Lyn Healing, Claire Holmes and Sean McMaster said: “We are lucky to have these local facilities but it is important that they are used to full capacity. Every day they sit unused is a wasted opportunity for local people.
“It is very welcome that following Graham’s involvement City Health are now accepting new patients after making progress to reduce their waiting list. This is a big improvement that will help local people but it can be even better.
“Offering more appointments at convenient times would ensure people across Withernsea receive the high quality treatment they deserve.”
Beverley and Holderness MP Graham Stuart commented: “We are lucky to have Withernsea Community Hospital on our doorsteps. But for many a trip to hospital for a five minute meeting means a four hour return bus journey to Hull.
“That is why I am working with the ward councillors to ensure key parts of the hospital are used up to five days a week so the precious space is used to give as many people as possible the treatment they need in a timely manner close to home.”
