RUMOURS that Kingsbridge Hospital is to be 'privatised' have been robustly denied by the local clinical commissioning group. Northern, Eastern and Western Devon CCG say no decision has yet been made on the future of community healthcare services. Rumours apparently started when staff at the hospital were given a questionnaire on community services. The future of health care in the area is currently under consultation. Members of the public have until Tuesday, July 8, to give feedback on a document called 'Integrated, personal and sustainable – community services for the 21st century', drawn up by NEW Devon CCG. While the 20 page summary document is neither easy to understand nor clear in describing proposed changes, it seems to give greater weight to caring for people at home rather than in community hospitals and suggests Minor Injuries Units – such as the one at Kingsbridge – may be replaced by 'a small number of hospital-based urgent care centres. South Hams Hospital League of Friends has already urged people to give feedback on the strategy. Dr Stephen Harris, vice chair of the CCG, said: 'We are currently seeking the views of local people and organisations on our proposed strategic framework. 'The proposal for South Hams, West Devon and Plymouth is to integrate the much valued local community hospitals with other community healthcare provision. 'We are pleased with the level of response we've had so far from the South Hams and welcome any further comments. 'The feedback document can be found electronically on the CCG's website (https://www.newdevonccg.nhs.uk/involve/community-services/101039">https://www.newdevonccg.nhs.uk/involve/community-services/101039) or paper copies can be requested by calling Sally Parker on 01752 398737. 'You can also email directly to [email protected]">[email protected] or write to Community Services, NEW Devon CCG, County Hall, Topsham Road, Exeter, EX2 4QL.'