Controversial plans which could see some A&E services removed from a Lanarkshire hospital will be under scrutiny at a series of public meetings.

NHS Lanarkshire has added more dates to give the public a chance to grill the board about proposals to remove orthopaedic emergency services and surgery from Monkland’s Hospital.

Orthopaedic services are currently provided on an outpatient, day case and inpatient basis at Hairmyres, Monklands Hospital and Wishaw General Hospitals.

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Among the options under consideration, Wishaw General could
become a designated major trauma unit for Lanarkshire for orthopaedics.

The health board has said there will continue to be three fully functional emergency departments in Lanarkshire.

The plans also include a £400 million project to replace or refurbish Monklands Hospital.

Dr Iain Wallace, NHS Lanarkshire’s medical director, said: “The public meetings are a great opportunity to both find out more about our proposals for healthcare in Lanarkshire, and to let us know your views on them.

“Your comments and feedback are crucial to ensuring we have the right strategy in place to deliver high-quality, safe, effective and person-centred care for the people of Lanarkshire.

“As well as setting out our proposals for the future, ‘Achieving Excellence’ includes a clear commitment from NHS Lanarkshire that Wishaw General, Hairmyres and Monklands hospitals will all continue to deliver emergency care.

“Each hospital will continue to have: a fully-functioning, consultant-led emergency department; acute medical and surgical services; diagnostics and imaging; operating theatres; and critical care and outpatient services.”

The public meetings will take place from tomorrow until  October 26 at locations in Lanarkshire.

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For more information go to www.nhslanarkshire.org.uk/Involved/consultation/healthcare-strategy.

Residents can also complete the consultation questionnaire at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/achievingexcellenceconsultation or email emailing comments to hcsviews@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk