A PATIENT at Knutsford’s Community Hospital claims people are being encouraged to travel to Macclesfield for appointments instead of using the town’s clinics because they can get seen quicker.

The future of the hospital on Bexton Road is up in the air after it was announced in February that a new medical centre could be built on the site.

But a Knutsford resident, who did not wish to be named, said he was told he would have to wait two months for an appointment at the audiology clinic in Knutsford when he phoned in July.

After stating he was able to drive, the receptionist then offered him an appointment at Macclesfield the week after.

“Some two months ago I attended our Knutsford Community Hospital where, after tests, I was provided with two hearing aids,” he said.

“I have recently been experiencing some problems which indicate the hearing aids need adjusting.

“I rang the audiology department at Macclesfield District General Hospital to request an appointment at Knutsford Community Hospital.

“The earliest appointment they could offer me was early September.

“Fortunately, as I can drive to Macclesfield, they were able to offer me the week after.”

A spokeswoman for East Cheshire NHS Trust – which runs both hospitals – said the trust could not always accommodate individual patient’s requests.

“East Cheshire NHS Trust provide audiology clinics at Macclesfield District General Hospital, Knutsford District Community Hospital, Congleton, Wilmslow and Handforth clinics,” she said.

“All appointments are booked by our central booking team. Patients are assigned to the next available appointments appropriate to their needs.

“We provide five audiology clinics at Knutsford District Community Hospital every week.

“Some patients ask for a specific audiologists and clinic location for their appointment, and unfortunately the trust cannot always accommodate these request and will offer an alternative appointment to meet the patient’s needs.

“The trust’s audiology department aims to help people overcome the problems associated with their hearing by provide a high quality patient focused service.”

l What do you think about the waiting times at Knutsford Community Hospital?

Have you had any issues with your appointments?

Email your comments to knutsford@guardiangrp.co.uk.