Options for future of healthcare

Locals will be asked for their opinion before a decision is made

A wide range of options are to be drawn up to shape future community-based health services in Annandale and Eskdale.

A review team has been tasked with developing proposals based on the results of early consultation work.

They will report to NHS Dumfries and Galloway before the proposals are put out to consultation.

The health authority said no decisions hadbeen made at this stage about future health service provision.

A series of options are being developed based on initial input by patients, members of the public and voluntary and statutory organisations.

They range from maintaining the status quo to developing a single hospital facility serving the whole area and redefining the roles of existing community hospitals.

Key issues being considered include the management of long-term conditions, improving the health of the local population, sustaining community rehabilitation services and delivering appropriate levels of specialist care.

The review team is expected to present its findings to the local NHS Board later this year. The proposals will then be subject to a formal public consultation process.