Ross voices concern over Aberlour Hospital
Moray MP Douglas Ross has expressed his concerns about the Fleming Hospital in Aberlour after receiving confirmation from NHS Grampian that it is facing severe challenges and will be included in a review of community hospitals being carried out to examine their long term sustainability.
Commenting Douglas said: “I was contacted by a member of the public last week who told me that staff at Aberlour community hospital have been aware that the hospital faces severe challenges. I contacted NHS Grampian about this and they have confirmed the issues and highlighted budget restrictions as a major issue.
“I have previously asked NHS Grampian about Leanchoil Hospital in Forres after similar concerns were raised with me about it and now we have this situation at Aberlour. It is clear that a lack of investment in previous years has an impact on recruiting people to these hospitals but they are vital for our communities throughout Moray. It is very revealing that budgets have been highlighted as a problem surrounding the future of these hospitals. Moray has received a raw deal from the SNP Scottish Government and we need their investment to secure the future of these facilities, without it they will close and local people will lose out.
“I understand that a review will take place with input from stakeholders in a bid to examine the sustainability and long term plan for the hospitals, examining staffing and budgeting problems that are posing real issues across Moray and set out a plan for how the NHS can sustain local care.
“This will be important work but it must be backed up by the necessary resources. These community hospitals have served Moray well for decades, and can continue to do so for years to come but unless the Scottish Government support them financially they will be forced to close. I am not prepared to sit back and let that happen.”