Decision on maternity unit delayed

A DECISION over the future of children’s and maternity services at a North Yorkshire Hospital has been delayed until September.
By The Newsroom
Published 20th Aug 2012, 07:00 BST

The Friarage Hospital in Northallerton could have its services cut after reports of dwindling demand, leaving expectant mothers to travel as far as Harrogate or Middlesbrough to give birth.

A public rally took place in June to oppose the plans. NHS Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby’s clinical commissioning group was due to present the options to a meeting of the shadow governing body next Thursday, August 23.

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But the group has decided to take more time to review the clinical information and public feedback it has received before giving its recommendations.

Dr Vicky Pleydell, shadow accountable officer at for the CCG, said: “We want to make sure we have carried out as much research as possible, to ensure the options we recommend are as informed as they can be.”

The options are still expected to be taken to the board of NHS North Yorkshire and York on September 25. The formal consultation is likely to end in January, with a final decision set to be made by the board next spring.

Related topics:NorthallertonHarrogateMiddlesbroughWhitby