Dorset hospitals merger plan board chosen

The proposed merger of two Dorset hospital trusts has moved forward with the selection of a board of directors.

The merger of Poole Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is yet to be approved.

But the selection of 15 people to lead the new organisation will form part of a business plan which is being put together to support the proposal.

There are no plans to close hospitals or change clinical services.

A board spokesman said the merger was in the best interests of staff and patients in east Dorset and it would enable the hospitals to create centres of excellence.

A public consultation on the alliance ended in April.

Both trusts will remain separate entities until the merger is authorised.