MP warns of secret plans to downgrade A&E

Therese Patten, Chief Operating Officer, said: “The Sustainability and Transformation Plan (STP) for Cheshire and Merseyside aims to set out how the health and care system can remain fit for the future and respond successfully to the growing demands that are being placed on it.
“Published in October 2016, the plan represents the thoughts and ambitions of more than 30 different organisations serving a population of more than 2½ million people. The plan is being further revised.
“It signals areas that may need to conduct reviews of some care services and to assess whether there are clinical or sustainability issues to address.
“Any proposals, especially in respect of changes to A&E, would need a strong clinical evidence base as well as benefitting our patients in terms of quality and safety. They would also need to be sustainable and require public engagement and statutory consultation.”