Staff shortages force trust to move hospital services thirty miles away
Hospital bosses in North Lincolnshire are considering whether some complex cancer services should be moved from the Princess Diana Hospital to Hull - over 30 miles away.
The trust which runs Grimsby, Scunthorpe and Goole hospitals says a recruitment problem could threaten safety in its haematology services.
It has only one consultant haematologist - but the service is set up to run with four.
The service will be supported by temporary locum-staff from the beginning of November. However, the Trust say that "this is not a long-term solution".
The new arrangements will affect around 70 people with "complex cases" a year.
The Trust is working with transport providers to address any issues that this move may cause for patients.
Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust say this is "initially a temporary arrangement" to ensure the service remains safe",
But subject to public consultation, the Trust would could propose to make this arrangement permanent.
These changes will be the subject of an NHS England-led review to provide assurance that services will continue to be safe and sustainable.
Dr Stuart Baugh, Associate Medical Director for Medicine at the Trust said: “We have long-established links with Castle Hill (in Hull) and our aim is to ensure local cancer patients receive the quality care that they need.
"This change to the service will affect patients receiving haematological care from the Trust but it will mean that their more complex care needs will be met at a centre of excellence.”
In March 2017 the Trust was placed in financial special measures to reduce an expected £43.3m deficit for 2017-2018.
Patients and carers wishing to find out more about the changes can contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service on 03033 306518.