A REDDITCH dad who is campaigning to save services at the Alexandra Hospital is worried proposed changes to the set-up of Redditch and Bromsgrove Primary Care Trust could weaken his fight.

Neal Stote is concerned about the plan to merge Redditch and Bromsgrove PCT with the Worcester PCT, particularly at such a crucial time for the savethealex campaign.

The Redditch and Bromsgrove PCT has joined the campaign to stop the proposed downgrading of the Alex and transfer of vital services to Worcester.

Mr Stote, of Greenlands, said: "If the PCTs merge. the one PCT left would be unable to react to local needs and its power base would be in Worcester.

"At the moment, the Redditch and Bromsgrove PCT is fighting for services at the Alex. They are investigating sourcing services such as paediatrics and maternity from Birmingham NHS Trusts. Should the plans go ahead to merge the PCTs, the option of working with other trusts would be lost."

Mr Stote also fears that with a merger, Redditch and Bromsgrove PCT would be in a weaker financial position.

"Redditch and Bromsgrove PCT has never been in debt. Should the PCTs merge, money would be lost to PCTs that are in debt and this would be to the detriment of healthcare in Redditch and Bromsgrove," he added.

The consultation period on the proposed changes to the PCTs started on December 14 and will run until March 22.

Residents will have the chance to express their views at a meeting at Redditch Town Hall next Tuesday at 1.30pm.

For more details on the proposals for the PCTs, visit www.nhswestmidlands.org.uk