Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire MSP, Rachael Hamilton, wrote to the Health Secretary Jeane Freeman to seek assurances on the future of the Borders General Hospital’s hydrotherapy pool.
In the response from the Health Secretary, an apology from NHS Borders was issued, and there is to be a discussion into staff provision for maintaining numbers at the hydrotherapy pool.
The Health Secretary acknowledged the importance of the hydrotherapy pool at Borders General despite the recent disruption caused by staffing levels.
Reflecting on the letter, Rachael Hamilton MSP said:
“Whilst I am glad we have received an apology, the fact remains that with very little notice, the hydrotherapy pool can be closed.
“My constituents rely on this vital service, and staff shortages at NHS Borders must be addressed to ensure that it continues to operate normally.
“I am still not convinced that the future of the hydrotherapy pool is guaranteed, as without a robust staffing plan, we may see many more days when the pool is closed at short notice.
“I look forward to hearing what NHS Borders plan to do to ensure it remains open”
Concerned constituent, Denise Ballantyne said:
“While this is positive information about the vital hydrotherapy service, and even taking into account the exceptional circumstances surrounding the support staff, I find it difficult to understand why after 4 months’ management have still not resolved the issue!
“This ongoing situation left service users completely without any information until challenged’.