A LABOUR party member has launched an attack on the GP politician behind plans for a Thames Valley ‘super hospital’ – saying his “irresponsible” comments will cause patients to worry about their care.

Linda Derrick, who chairs Wycombe Labour’s health policy group, put a series of questions to Dr Phillip Lee this week – following his claims that patients are getting a ‘second class service’ from the region’s hospital network.

Last week we reported how Dr Lee had stopped his father having a complex vascular procedure at Wexham Park Hospital – directing him instead to a hospital in London (see related links).

The Conservative MP for Bracknell wants a new ‘super hospital’ built at Junction 8/9 of the M4, which would require the downgrade or closure of several current hospitals, including Wexham Park.

The following questions were sent to us by Dr Derrick, who has a Chemistry PhD, and answered by Dr Lee.

Dr Derrick: Is Dr Lee saying that his father's GP showed poor clinical judgement in referring his father to Wexham Park?

Dr Lee: He was not referred by his GP. His referral came from Wexham Park casualty.

Dr Derrick: And that his father's GP should have referred his father instead to a Centre of Excellence for vascular surgery?

Dr Lee: Yes

Dr Derrick: And is Dr Lee saying that other GPs are similarly showing poor clinical judgement in referring their patients to Wexham Park where patients will get a second class service for their surgery?

Dr Lee: Yes if they know that clinical outcomes are known to be better elsewhere.

Dr Derrick: And that other patients should also insist on going to a Centre of Excellence?

Dr Lee: Yes

Dr Derrick: There must be many patients about to have surgery at Wexham Park who are will now be concerned about the service they will get there....

Dr Lee: In some circumstances I would also be concerned. How do you think you secure progress without challenging the status quo?

Dr Derrick: I cannot understand how a local MP and a practising GP can make such irresponsible statements, criticising the clinical judgement of his fellow GPs and worrying many patients.

Dr Lee: It is not irresponsible to tell the truth.

Dr Derrick: Dr Lee says he put his proposals forward "to stir things up and cause trouble". You don't do this to people about health issues, particularly to people who are waiting for operations...

Dr Lee: I am seeking to improve care for all. What are you doing by issuing such an attack on my proposal?