In all
things. I believe it is important to plan for the future. I am aware of
challenges and pressures that face our NHS. It is right that all NHS services
across Cornwall are in scope to be part of the full review process as part of
the consultation for the STP, so we can ensure we get best value for money from
them and they operate to the best of their abilities.
I am
pleased that this Government has increased funding for the NHS in real terms
and is set to continue to increase the funding going forward. In Cornwall this
is also the case. For example, since the creation of NHS Kernow it has had a
real terms increase in funding every year, which is projected to continue until
at least 2020.
However
the funding needs to be spent well and the service fit to meet the demands our
population place on it. Just throwing money at a problem won’t necessarily make
it go away.
Savings
need to be made. While, along with my Cornish MP colleagues I will continue to
press for more funding, the NHS in Cornwall does need to live within its means.
The current deficit it has is in my view caused by mismanagement which led to
an overspend of £57m in just this last year,
I am pleased
that the STP is an open consultation where the pubic have a chance to have
their say.
Although
I have been unable to attend the public meetings in St Austell and Newquay that
have taken place so far, due to having to be in Parliament when they took
place, a member of my team did go on my behalf. I also meet regularly with NHS
and Cornwall Council management and will sure local people’s views are heard
and fight for the very best outcome for St Austell and Newquay.
I hope
this is helpful in outlining my views on the STP.
