Mike Penning has received information of the PCTs proposals to close the Early Pregnancy Unit (EPU).

Mike Penning, Member of Parliament for Hemel Hempstead, has received information that the Primary Care Trust and Hospital Trust are considering closing the Early Pregnancy Unit (EPU) at Hemel Hempstead hospital. The EPU is a nurse-led service for women who have problems in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Mike Penning said:
“If this information is correct – and I have no doubt that it is – this is a kick in the teeth for Hemel’s young mums. We were promised that existing outpatient services would remain at Hemel. It is not practical for pregnant women to travel back and forth to Watford – many have other young children to care for and many are reliant on public transport.”

He added:
“I hope that new rules on commissioning of services which put local GPs in charge will put a stop to this move – or at very least ensure the service is reinstated, because that is what local GPs want. I would also call for a reintroduction of ultrasound tests at Hemel to improve on the current EPU service.”