Helen Whately MP has welcomed improvements being made by East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust to help patients travelling by public transport to outpatient appointments at Estuary View Medical Centre.
On Friday 12th June Helen made the journey from Faversham to Estuary View herself, after being contacted by numerous residents concerned with how difficult and time-consuming the journey was. Helen saw first-hand the challenges of the journey and discussed the problem with Chris Bown, Chief Executive of the East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust, during her recent visit to William Harvey Hospital.
Since this meeting the Trust has written to Helen outlining the actions they are taking to improve the situation. The Trust has updated their website to include details on how to get to Estuary View for outpatient appointments, they are including additional information in appointment letters to patients and are going to publish an update in local newspapers and parish magazines.
The Trust is also working with Stagecoach and local partners to address the lack of signs and directions at Whitstable Station. On her journey Helen found that it wasn’t clear which bus stop patients needed to use to reach Estuary View, nor which bus. Bus times shown on the bus stop were also out of date. The Trust hopes for a decision on improved signage at the station early this month.
Helen Whately said;
“I’m pleased Estuary View and East Kent NHS Trust have been so responsive to my comments and those of patients. I experienced myself how difficult the journey can be and it would be almost impossible if you’re not fully mobile, have small children or are unwell.
It’s good to see they are taking prompt action on the things that can be done quickly, like giving patients better information. This will help, but on its own, the journey will still be time-consuming and difficult for many patients. I still want to see the local NHS assessing how well the transport options are working for patients, looking into whether further improvements are needed and exploring what additional services can be provided at Faversham Cottage Hospital.”
Photo caption: Helen en route to Estuary View Medical Centre