HEALTH bosses have responded to Press revelations that day hospital facilities at Burnley could be axed.

Burnley health care NHS trust chiefs say changes may be needed to improve services, but people will be asked for their views before a decision is made.

A spokesman for the trust said: "The purpose of day hospital services is to provide intensive rehabilitation and treatment for between eight and 12 weeks for patients moving between hospital and home.

"The current service at Burnley General has evolved over the years while those at Pendle Community and Rossendale General have been introduced as dedicated day hospital services with full supporting staff and resources.

"A recent review has proposed that the trust strengthen the existing services by reducing the number of day hospitals.

"As the facilities at Pendle and Rossendale were tailored to providing this service, consideration must be given to closing the service at Burnley."

Trust chief David Chew said: "It is very important that we give everyone an opportunity to have their say in how we develop our day hospital facilities."

The trust will consult the Community Health Council, the ambulance service, GPs and the public before September 20.

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