Manx Care says feedback from a recent public meeting about the future of Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital (RDCH) is being reviewed, with work already under way to address concerns.

Around 300 people attended last week’s meeting in person or watched online, with those taking part invited to ask questions, share their experiences and highlight issues affecting people in the north of the island.

The feedback, along with additional questions submitted by attendees, will now be reviewed by Manx Care and used to inform ongoing planning, future service developments and further engagement.

Manx Care says work is already under way on a number of issues raised during the meeting, including continued engagement with dialysis patients, further planning for the return of services to RDCH and consideration of concerns about ophthalmology services and urgent care provision.

Work is also progressing to support the return of physiotherapy, ultrasound and inpatient rehabilitation services on Martin Ward in the coming months. Renal dialysis and dental services are also expected to return.

At the meeting, Manx Care and the Department of Health and Social Care reaffirmed their commitment to the hospital.

Manx Care interim chief executive officer Dr Chris Stockport said: ‘The turnout showed how important RDCH is to the community it serves, and we recognise the strength of feeling locally about its future.

‘We heard clearly that people want timely updates, transparency and greater certainty about future plans. We also recognise that changes to services and evolving plans have caused frustration and concern for some members of the community, and we are committed to improving how we communicate as this work progresses.

‘We remain fully committed to Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital, and to returning services wherever it is safe, sustainable and clinically appropriate to do so.’