CONSULTATION DOCUMENT

Consultation in the NHS is a process of dialogue in which the objective is to influence formal decisions made by the NHS.  Through consultation people who use NHS services are invited to give their views on proposed changes to those services.

Consultation is intended to help Clinical Commissioning Groups and other NHS organisations secure the best possible services that meet the needs of local patients and represent the best possible value for money.

The outcome of public consultation is an important factor in health service decision making which will be fully taken into account.  It is, however, one of a number of important factors.  Others include clinical, financial and practical considerations.  The results of public consultation do not represent a vote on, or a veto over, any form of change.

The Healthcare for the Future consultation involves possible changes to maternity services (including urgent gynaecology), stroke and acute medical services, children’s inpatient services, emergency surgery, and community hospital inpatient beds.

The full Healthcare for the Future consultation document is available on this website.

The Easy Read version of the document is available on this website.

A large text version of the document is available on this website.

The consultation document can be made available in other formats (audio or braille) or in other languages, on request.  Please email us at consultation.responses@cumbriasuccessregime.org or write to us at the following address:  Healthcare for the Future Consultation Team, NHS North Cumbria Clinical Commissioning Group, Lonsdale Unit, Penrith Hospital, Bridge Lane, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 8HX.