Spare rooms plan can’t solve NHS overcrowding | Letters

Proposals that could see the NHS renting rooms in private houses for patients recuperating after surgery are criticised by Helen Tucker, Mannie Sher, Penelope Maclachlan and others. But Frances Hollis sees the idea as a solution to several pressing problems

I am intrigued by the headline on the CareRooms website telling me that I can earn £50 a night and all I need is a spare bedroom or annexe with easy access to a private bathroom (NHS may rent spare rooms to ease bed crisis, 26 October). A money-making scheme, and all I need to do is to have a stranger who is sick and vulnerable in my home. Nothing about care responsibilities, so that is a relief. Perhaps a good way to avoid bedroom tax.

I am confused though, as I thought that our local community hospitals provided care for patients coming out of general hospitals. Why close these local rural hospitals that have been offering care and rehabilitation for generations? The evidence shows high patient satisfaction and good outcomes, but it seems this is not being considered.

Continue reading... October 28, 2017 at 12:00AM