Views wanted on changes to NHS services in Norfolk and Waveney
Patients are being encouraged to share their views on controversial plans for NHS services, including closing or cutting the hours of a walk-in centre.The centre in Norwich – which sees about 72,000 patients a year – faced closure in 2023 before a new contract was agreed to keep it running.NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board (ICB) began its current consultation in March as it faced a £280m shortfall in its budget.People can give their opinions on the plans, including moving the Norwich-based vulnerable adults service to an outreach model for people in Norfolk and Waveney, at a series of drop-in sessions.
The plans also look at additional investment in GP practices and changes to the bases for out-of-hours services.Former chief executive of the ICB, Tracey Bleakley - who made the proposals - stepped down from the post earlier this month. She is now executive managing director of the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.The sessions are being held at King's Lynn Town Hall on Monday afternoon, The Forum in Norwich on Tuesday evening, Blyburgate Hall in Beccles on Wednesday afternoon and Lowestoft Community Hub on Thursday evening.Once the consultation has closed on 25 May, feedback will be compiled into a report by Healthwatch Norfolk and published on the ICB website. A decision will be made by the ICB Board in July.
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