RCN comment on Chase Farm hospital

Published: 12 September 2011

Royal College of Nursing Chief Executive & General Secretary Dr Peter Carter said:

“It is vital that the Government does not shy away from difficult, evidence-based decisions  that are in the best interests of patients and clinical outcomes. The uncertainty regarding Chase Farm has gone on for almost two decades and the hospital  must now receive substantial investment for its remaining services to ensure that all its patients receive the highest possible standard of care, particularly the premises which are in need of a major refurbishment.

“It is crucial that all future changes to hospital services result in appropriate levels of care and resources. What must not happen is that they are used as an excuse to cut staff and services.”

Ends

Notes for Editors

1. For further information, interviews or illustrations please contact the RCN Media Office on 0207 647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit  http://www.rcn.org.uk/newsevents/media
2. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations