An independent review by the East of England Clinical Senate has concluded that there is a “credible and persuasive strategic case for change” in how hospital services are delivered across Norfolk and Waveney.
The review, carried out by an expert panel of clinicians, considered the evidence underpinning the Norfolk and Waveney University Hospitals Group’s Case for Change, including growing demand, workforce pressures, challenges facing some services and the opportunities presented by the new hospitals programme.
The Clinical Senate supports the Group progressing to the next stage of work, while making clear that this does not represent an endorsement of any future model of care.
The report makes 17 recommendations to strengthen the next phase, including further evidence on clinical benefits, closer working with health and care partners, the impact of travel and access, and meaningful involvement of patients, staff and communities.
Professor Lesley Dwyer, Group Chief Executive, said: “We welcome this independent review and the constructive challenge it provides. It reinforces why we need to think carefully about how we deliver safe, high-quality and sustainable care for future generations.
“The recommendations will help strengthen our work as we explore how services could develop, working alongside our clinicians, partners, staff and local communities.
“We are still at an early stage. No decisions have been made about future service changes, and any proposals will need to be supported by robust evidence, further scrutiny and meaningful public involvement.” The Group will now consider the recommendations alongside the next stage of its clinical strategy work
