Clarification on Queen Margaret Hospital services

Dunfermline MSP Bill Walker has welcomed clarification on the services currently offered at the Queen Margaret Hospital (QMH), after NHS Fife pledged to keep West Fifers up to date via their new “Queen Margaret Development Project” newsletter.

Mr Walker said: “West Fife residents have needed, in particular, clarity on what can and can’t be treated at the Minor Injuries Service at the Queen Margaret. Not knowing whether to head there, or go directly to the Victoria in Kirkcaldy, has caused many people a great deal of undue confusion and stress.

“I hope the newsletters will be made widely available in doctors’ surgeries and other public places. I will certainly place a link on my website at www.billwalkermsp.com.”

The first edition of the newsletter also outlines developments at the QMH, including plans to set up a state-of-the-art Diagnostic and Treatment Centre (DTC). The DTC will encompass Day Surgery, Day Intervention, Urology and Endoscopy, with accommodation within the hospital. Now that emergency operations will no longer be taking place, NHS Fife hope to improve access to day surgery at the QMH and reduce delays.

It is further proposed that all services from the Carnegie Clinic and Abbeyview Clinic will relocate to the QMH.

Mr Walker added: “NHS Fife are asking people to air their views on developments at the Queen Margaret, and I would strongly encourage West Fife residents to do so.”

A series of events will be held to gather feedback and answer questions. For further details, visit www.nhsfife.org/queenmargaret.

Injuries treatable at the 24/7 Minor Injuries Service at Queen Margaret include:

• Simple fractures
• Back, shoulder and rib injuries
• Ankle, knee and wrist sprains
• Minor head and neck injuries
• Cuts and grazes which may need dressing and stitches
• Minor burns and scalds

The Minor Injuries Service cannot treat:

• Illnesses or poor health which a GP would normally treat
• Gynaecological problems
• Pregnancy problems
• Alcohol and drug related problems
• Mental health problems
• Drug overdose
• Severe allergic reaction
• Breathing problems
• Chest pain