A CONTROVERSIAL review of ophthalmic services, which could affect Redditch patients, is likely to go before health trust board members next week.

Members of Worcestershire NHS Acute Hospitals Trust board will discuss the proposals next Wednesday before they are put out to consultation.

Staff and patients at the Alexandra Hospital fear treatment for cataracts and other eye conditions will be moved to Worcester or Kidderminster.

Health watchdog Bromsgrove and Redditch Community Health Council is leading the fight to keep services in Redditch, arguing an ageing population will need them all the more in years to come.

The Alexandra Hospital now has one full-time and one part-time eye consultant.

Redditch MP and health minister Jacqui Smith is also worried about the possible outcome of the review.