Richard Foord, MP for Honiton and Sidmouth, has called on the chief executive of NHS Devon to allocate one of the five community hospitals in his constituency for this purpose.
Bobby Angelov www.midweekherald.co.uk
An MP is urging for a hospital to be turned into a neighbourhood health centre in East Devon.
In a letter to Steve Moore, Mr Foord highlighted the potential for investment in local health services, given the “rapidly expanding older population.”
He expressed concern about the comfort of residents, particularly in Sidmouth and Seaton, with NHS England’s increasing reliance on technology and artificial intelligence.
Citing the 2021 census, Mr Foord noted that around one quarter of Seaton and Sidmouth residents have some form of disability.
In both areas, around 10 per cent of the population provide unpaid care for a friend or relative.
He also pointed out that the average age in these towns has increased more than the England and South West averages.
Mr Foord said: “This means that there are five hospitals in my constituency that have the potential for essential investment in local health services amid what is a rapidly expanding older population, that will continue in the years to come.
“The Sidmouth and Seaton areas in particular, are now well known to be home to demographic mainly over the age of 65, who are not necessarily comfortable with NHS England’s direction of travel with AI and technology.”
The community hospitals in question are Honiton, Sidmouth, Axminster, and Seaton, all of which have some available space, while Ottery St Mary Hospital is currently at full capacity.
Mr Foord praised the state of repair of Ottery St Mary, Seaton, and Honiton hospitals, noting they are only about 30 years old.
Axminster Hospital, though older, is reportedly in good condition.
Mr Foord has previously raised this issue with the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and followed up with another letter and question in parliament.
East Devon Watch 
It is good that Richard Ford is speaking out regarding the use of community hospitals in our area.
Ideally Seaton would be the best choice or failing that Axminster, they are the furthest east of the county and a much longer distance from Exeter hospitals, which is makes it more difficult for patients to get to.
Seaton has better car parking provision, which Sidmouth does not. People in East Devon need parking provision as public transport is not available to many especially in the villages .
Of course Sidmouth and the other community hospitals need to remain, they are valuable to their communities.
But for a new health neighbourhood centre, Seaton would be the wisest choice I think, it is ready and waiting !
Thank you Richard Foord and others who are involved in efforts to improve health provision in this area.
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