Local MP Jeremy Hunt has raised the issue of Haslemere’s Minor Injuries Unit with local NHS boss Claire Fuller as concerns mount about the future of the vital service. He also met local campaigner Ian Doolittle and Royal Surrey CEO, Louise Stead, following the publication of the 'Better Care Together' review of local urgent care. NHS England has published new specifications for urgent treatment centres which the Haslemere unit does not currently meet, but Jeremy is determined to ensure there is no degradation of the services. "As Health Secretary I secured a record £20.5bn increase in the NHS’s annual budget as I knew demand for health services was increasing in areas like Haslemere with large older populations," said Jeremy."It is vital services here continue without putting more pressure on the Royal Surrey's A&E unit."
The review has not yet begun formal development, but a number of public meetings have taken place and Jeremy has invited Claire Fuller to come to Haslemere herself to hear from local people. Jeremy led the campaign to save Haslemere Hospital in his first term as MP, leading a march in the town, which persuaded the then Labour government not to close down the much-loved and utilised facility.
Jeremy's intends to hold a public meeting, once COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted.