Liberal Democrat MSP for the South of Scotland Jim Hume will lead a Members' debate in the Scottish Parliament arguing the case for the retention of five community hospitals across Dumfries and Galloway.
 
Mr Hume will question the health board’s proposed transfer of elderly care from hospitals to the home as well as its funding plans, and will repeat his call for the Cabinet Secretary to visit with local action groups.

Commenting ahead of the debate, Mr Hume said:
 
“The proposed closure of five community hospitals across Dumfries and Galloway has caused a great deal of upset and concern in the communities that will be affected.
 
“This is not about sentimental attachment; it is about the very real prospect of people losing truly local health services in the South of Scotland.

“Key questions over this controversial proposal remain unanswered, such as how elderly care will be transferred from in-patient beds into the home by the local authority.

“These hospitals are critical in ensuring people get access to healthcare.

“The Health Secretary must work with the local health board to address the many outstanding issues and agree to meet with local action groups before she comes to any final decision on this vital issue."

Ends.