AN East Lancashire health trust is backing a major shake-up of NHS services which could put it out of business.

Burnley Health Trust, the hospitals service for Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale, says merger with Blackburn would be logical, provided it was carried out on an equal partner basis.

It adds the move should only come when the new Primary Care Trusts are widespread and if mental health services become specialist trusts in their own right.

But the Burnley trust's response to the 'Fit for Purpose' NHS consultation document on the future shape of health services in the North West, warns merger with Blackburn is not universally supported by professional groups and local communities.

In its general comment, the trust says it is felt change is inevitable, adding that pressure for change will increase further because of the continuing need to reduce junior doctors' working hours and to reorganise services to cope.

The statement, to be reported to today's meeting of the Burnley trust board, goes on: "Some concern has been expressed that larger managerial units do not necessarily mean better and more cost-effective management, but there would be benefit of a single corporate approach to balanced, cost-effective, high quality services across East Lancashire." The Burnley response does not address directly the future shape of ambulance and community services, but adds it would support the continuation of East Lancashire Health Authority in the short term.

"The Trust believes there are benefits to having a single strategic health authority for Lancashire. However, it recognises that in the short term primary care groups and primary care trusts will need a great deal of support as they develop..."

The report says change should not take place for its own sake and must be directly shown to improve the service provided to patients.

It concludes that much further discussion is needed, adding that Burnley looks forward to working with colleagues in all services to ensure the best possible service is provided to all patients using current facilities in Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale.

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