A Devon hospital governor has resigned amid an ongoing dispute over the future of out-of-hours cardiac care in Torbay.
John Kiddey, who was elected to the role at Torbay Hospital, spoke out earlier this year against plans to move some out-of-hours heart stent procedures to Exeter – sparking an outcry in south Devon, leading health bosses to withdraw the plan.
He later stepped down after learning he would face disciplinary action. At a public meeting on Tuesday, attended by more than 200 people, he was given a standing ovation.
Some suggested at the meeting Torbay should take on some of Exeter’s workload instead. NHS Devon said there were currently no plans to change cardiology services.
The focus, NHS Devon said in a statement, was on developing a draft case for change aimed at reducing cardiovascular disease, which would involve “significant engagement” with local people, stakeholders, and clinicians.
The Torbay Trust said it had thanked Mr Kiddey for his service and confirmed his views would be shared with the board of directors and council of governors.