By: Cllr Tony McPartlan
Many residents have told me how worried they are about the future of Chartwell Ward at the PRUH. It is our specialist cancer and haematology ward and a service that families in our local community have relied on for years, my own included.
At the latest Health Scrutiny Sub Committee, I challenged senior NHS leaders about early plans to close the ward and move patients to Denmark Hill.
As someone with personal experience of the care provided on Chartwell Ward, I know how important it is to have specialised treatment close to home. For many families, it is a lifeline.
Moving care to Denmark Hill might look tidy on a spreadsheet, but it does not reflect the reality for Bromley residents. It is far harder to reach in an emergency and the risks to patient safety have not been properly considered.
Bromley residents deserve safe and reliable care when they need it most.
Taking this ward away from our borough would put unnecessary pressure on patients and their loved ones at an already difficult time, and it would weaken the emergency pathway that has supported our community for decades.
Unfortunately Kings Collect NHS Foundation Trust – who manage the PRUH – are committed to their plans to close the inpatient unit. They are now seeking engagement with patient groups on how best to manage this change.
Your stories matter
Many local people have already shared their experiences with me and together they make a powerful case for keeping this ward in Bromley.
If you have concerns, experiences or stories you would like me to raise, please email tony.mcpartlan@bromley.gov.uk.