For

Against

Retains all benefits identified in Option 1 – local and accessible.

Requires at least £350,000 investment.

Treats more complex cases closer to those able to access the service.

Staff who can undertake X-rays are in short supply and recruitment would be difficult.

May reduce demand on A&E.

Additional accommodation, staff and equipment required to deliver the new services.

Further development of skilled workforce.

Comparatively small number of patients could leave staff unable to retain their skills.

Improve access to healthcare for local communities.

No back-up of specialist doctors to diagnose more complex problems.

Only accessible to those who live close by, so not equitable.

Increased demand on staff and services, reducing the efficiency of the system and lengthening waiting times.

There is an increased risk for patients if services are delivered away from specialised facilities with additional support.