Published: Friday, 1st December, 2006 12:16
Haylodge gear x-pires
By Hannah Jefferson
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Borders Health Chiefs confirmed this week that they will not be replacing x-ray equipment at Haylodge in Peebles – but gave further reassurances about the future of the hospital.
NHS representative, Ralph Roberts told members of the Tweeddale Area Committee on Monday, that replacing the machine was considered inappropriate.
He explained: “The whole area of x-ray has progressed quickly with the introduction of the digital and computer age.
“People now require a whole range of different investigations and we need to look at how best to take the service forward.
“The conclusion we have come to is that replacing the equipment as it was is not appropriate.”
The machine which would cost over a hundred thousand pounds to update was also deemed not cost effective.
And Peeblesshire patients will now be referred to improved services at the BGH for x-ray.
Ralph Roberts added: “The BGH has amongst the best waiting times for radiology services in Scotland.”
Fears mounted earlier this year when x-ray appointments were cancelled and beds were left empty at the community health facility.
But at the meeting the NHS spokesperson reiterated assurances that there are no proposals to shut Haylodge.
Ralph Roberts said: “We have absolutely no plans to close and we see Haylodge as a key part of the future of our network of health provision in the area.”
Local Councillor, Nancy Norman told the Peeblesshire News: “I am more than pleased to hear the reassurances about the future of Haylodge Hospital.
“It is great to hear that it will have an important role to play in health care across the whole of the Borders and it continues to serve the local community extremely well.”
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