Overview
- The Health and Adults Scrutiny Committee narrowly backed a recommendation for a full public consultation on the proposal affecting Furness General Hospital.
- Officials from the ICB and UHMBT told the meeting that Level 1 and 2 critical care would continue at FGH, with only Level 3 remaining suspended under the plan.
- If approved, the change would formalize transfers of the sickest patients to Royal Lancaster Infirmary after stabilisation, typically more than an hour away by road.
- ICB leaders cite a shortage of critical care consultants and low numbers of patients needing extended Level 3 support as the patient-safety rationale.
- Barrow MP Michelle Scrogham, who presented a petition with more than 13,000 signatures, welcomed extra engagement sessions but said they come too late.