Warning over likely cuts to ‘Mid’ rehab unit in Magherafelt

Medical care could be removed from the rehabilitation unit at the Mid-Ulster Hospital in Magherafelt, it was claimed today.
SDLP MLA for Mid-Ulster Patsy McGloneSDLP MLA for Mid-Ulster Patsy McGlone
SDLP MLA for Mid-Ulster Patsy McGlone

SDLP MLA for Mid-Ulster, Patsy McGlone told the Mail that he understood a proposal is under consideration that would see the doctors removed from the unit after 11pm.

He said: “This would be a further denigration of the health services available in Mid Ulster following years of cuts.

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“The hospital in Magherafelt has a rehabilitation unit of 20-30 beds where people go once they no longer need acute care.

“This important facility provides a great service where patients can receive continuing medical care, as well as physiotherapy and occupational therapy, as they prepare to return to their own homes.

“It also helps to relieve the pressure at the acute hospitals, providing step-down beds between acute care and returning home for some patients.”

A spokesperson from the Northern Trust said: “The Trust has been working with the Clinical Team in the Mid Ulster Hospital to consider how best to provide out of hours medical cover in the Rehabilitation Ward to ensure it is clinically appropriate, meets the needs of the patients and is sustainable.

“This work has been on-going since October 2013.”

Full story in today’s Mid-Ulster Mail

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