We refer to the article “Poor emergency care service in Harrow” (www.harrowtimes.co.uk, September 26). We feel the picture is a very different one and would like to reassure readers.
The review of emergency services by the Healthcare Commission relates to 2007/08 and since then we have made a number of improvements.
More than 98 per cent of patients are now treated, discharged or admitted in four hours or less at our local A&E departments. This improvement is a tribute to staff and is despite a year-on-year increase in the numbers of people using A&E.
In March, we also opened an Urgent Care Centre which is situated alongside Northwick Park Hospital’s A&E and cares for patients with minor ailments. The centre has now treated more than 10,000 people.
Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to remind readers only to use our A&E departments in a real emergency. Other options include calling NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or visiting your pharmacist or GP.
Fiona Wise
Chief Executive of The North West London Hospitals NHS Trust
Dr Sarah Crowther
Chief Executive of Harrow Primary Care Trust
