News from Southampton Labour

Bitterne Walk-in Centre “too important to close” says Denham

John Denham reacts to the opening of discussions on the future of Bitterne Walk in Centre.

Southampton Itchen MP John Denham has reacted to Southampton City Primary Care Trust’s announcement of discussions on future provision of unscheduled care in Southampton and of Bitterne Walk-in Centre in particular.

Mr Denham said: “Bitterne Walk in Centre was one of the first walk-in centres in the country – a real pioneer. It’s popular with patients, an important local service and part of the community.

“If it isn’t currently meeting its purposes then its role should be developed in line with experience and patients’ wishes so that the healthcare challenges we face in Southampton can be properly met. It would be a real shame if the walk-in centre was simply given up on. It’s too important to close.”

Discussion of Bitterne Walk in Centre is part of an on-going review of unscheduled care undertaken by SCPCT in line with its 2009/10 operating plan. The Trust’s Board will be considering a paper on the future provision of the walk-in centre at its next meeting.

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