MP's concern over stroke unit changes

Adam Dance said changes would mean some patients would have a "vast" distance to travel

An MP has asked the government to review a decision to close a stroke unit in Yeovil.

The most urgent stroke patients will instead be transported to either Dorchester or Taunton for treatment.

Adam Dance said this would mean some patients in Somerset - Wincanton, Frome and Yeovil in particular - would have a "vast" distance to travel.

NHS Somerset said moving to a single-site service which operated 24 hours a day would improve outcomes.

Under the plans approved in January, Yeovil District Hospital will keep 12 acute stroke beds where people can be cared for from 72 hours after a stroke, but will lose its four hyper-acute beds.

Mr Dance said more than 10,000 people had signed a petition to try and stop the changes.

"As we all know, the crucial time for a stroke is within the hour.

"Having to travel up to 20 miles (32km) or further to go to that unit is just not acceptable in this day and age.

"We should be looking at the population. To me, the population is more dependent on Yeovil Hospital than it is on Dorchester Hospital," the Liberal Democrat MP said.

'Fewer deaths'

A spokesperson from NHS Somerset said current services did not provide consistent 24/7 care.

They added: “The changes, which have been given careful consideration and been subject to a full public consultation, will mean better emergency treatment, reduced disability, fewer deaths and offer people a better chance of recovery following a stroke.

“Following initial treatment, they will then be transferred back to the stroke unit at Yeovil hospital for ongoing treatment and care. Investment in the acute stroke unit will enhance this provision as well."