Patients at a Spalding GP practice have been told it no longer deals with leg ulcers or long-term ‘complex’ wounds.
The service had been based at the Beechfield Medical Centre but patients received a letter telling them the service was moving to Gosberton.
They were given a list of transport options, including taxis and Call Connect on-demand bus service.
The county’s Integrated Care Board (ICB) said Beechfield had decided to stop providing a leg ulcer service.
“NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board has considered options for suitable alternative provision to ensure there is no gap in service. Following discussions between the ICB and Gosberton Medical Centre, the centre will deliver the service from May 19 onwards,” said a spokesman.
But the move has been criticised by a patient who says people with leg ulcers have restricted mobility so bus travel may not be an option.
A taxi would also prove to be too expensive for many people and the loss of the service at Beechfield would be a real worry for many of them.
Ann West (79), of Lime Court, Spalding, says the first she knew about it was when she turned up to find out the next two appointments had been cancelled.
“They told me they had no record of the appointments on the system as they’d just cancelled them without transferring them over to Gosberton,” she said. “It’s a 16-mile round trip there. I have my dressing changed every two days.
“I’m incredibly lucky as I have my son Ben who is able to take me. What about all those that don’t have anyone that can help them?
“We’ve had a fantastic service from the nurse Katy Ward. She was nearly in tears when she was telling us.”
Ben said: “Mum’s medical care was moved from the Johnson Hospital when the GP service was closed there.
“I don’t want her travelling too far as she’s still vulnerable.”
