MEMBERS of the public are being invited to quiz clinicians over changes to healthcare services in Scarborough.

The move follows North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust's controversial decision to press ahead with a super surgery in Scarborough – despite concerns it may not reach those who need it most.

The plans for a so-called Darzi centre have attracted a large amount of opposition from GPs and the public, who fear services would be cut from doctors' surgeries and the hospital.

But the PCT insists this is not the case and the new model would purely add to Scarborough's existing "good" services.

A report released by the PCT last month stated that the services it was proposing to commission include a traditional GP core service, a walk-in primary medical service for residents and visitors, specialist drug and alcohol support services, counselling and family planning services.

Patients and members of the public wishing to learn more about these changes to health services in Scarborough, Whitby, Ryedale, Bridlington and Driffield are invited to attend one of five drop-in sessions scheduled to be held in the coming weeks.

Earl Haworth, interim Medical Director for Scarborough and North East Yorkshire Healthcare NHS Trust, said: "The views of patients are essential to shaping the outcomes of this review. We will use the views captured at these events, along with the results of the survey, to appraise the recommendations put forward by our team of local clinicians.

"Two of the key cornerstones of this review are maintaining Scarborough Hospital as a strong healthcare resource – with the commitment of a 24 hour, seven day a week accident and emergency department – whilst providing more healthcare services closer to patient's homes.

"I am sure that local residents will have strong views about both these issues and I would urge them to come along and make themselves heard."

Local clinicians and PCT representatives leading the review will be on hand to answer questions throughout the sessions. Times and locations are as follows:

• Monday, 10am to noon – Oasis Room, Scarborough Christian Centre, Scarbor-ough
• Monday October 13, 10am to noon – Council Chambers, Ryedale District Council, Malton, YO17 7HH
• Monday October 20, 2pm to 4pm – Driffield Rugby, Kellythorpe, Driffield, YO25 9DW
• Tuesday October 21, 10am to noon – Conference Room, Green Lane, Whitby DAG
• Monday October 27, 10am to noon – Bay View Lounge, The Spa, Bridlington