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Leeds doctors in superbug warning
Top doctors have warned that plans to shut a specialist skincare unit in Leeds could lead to outbreaks of hospital superbugs.
As reported in the YEP last week, Ward 43 at Leeds General Infirmary could close as part of a shake-up of services.
At the moment there are 10 beds for patients with serious skin conditions in private rooms as well as four rheumatology beds.
Hospital bosses have pledged that the same number of patients will be seen and dermatology beds would still be provided, but have not yet decided where these would be. However in-patients fear they could be placed on general wards and treated by staff not familiar with their conditions.
Now three former LGI dermatologists have warned if that happens, it could lead to outbreaks of infections like MRSA.
In a letter to politicians, retired consultant dermatologist Dr John Cotterill, retired professor of dermatology Prof Bill Cunliffe and emeritus professor of dermatology Prof Neville Rowell say they read about the plans to axe the ward with 'horror and disbelief'.
"Even more alarming is the possibility that future patients will be treated in open medical or surgical wards," the letter reads.
"One of us has had the experience of treating dermatological patients in an open ward at the LGI and in our opinion this is an efficient way of spreading infections such as MRSA to non-dermatological patients."
They add: "It will be a tragedy if the unilateral management proposals lead to a reduction of dermatological nursing skills and loss of patient care and dignity.
"We believe that there would be a real risk of increasing MRSA infection to non-dermatological patients, putting patient's lives at risk."
However hospital managers insist any changes would not put patients at risk. A spokeswoman for Leeds Teaching Hospitals said they were looking at providing dermatology beds elsewhere.
"This will not impact on the service we provide. We will be treating the same number of patients and will continue to provide an in-patient dermatology service within the trust.
"Our clinical staff are looking at all the options and will discuss any future plans with our dermatology patients."
The campaign to save Ward 43 has stepped up a gear, with letters from patients, families and skincare organisations being sent to hospital managers, councillors, watchdogs and MPs.
The British Association of Dermatologists are also backing the protests, along with umbrella organisation Skin Care Campaign.
An online petition can be signed at http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/keep-ward43-open.
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Weather for Leeds
Saturday 11 February 2012
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