"The Emergency Medical Retrieval Service essentially brings the emergency department and the intensive care unit to the patient by helicopter or plane, " he added.

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Several options are being considered, but the trust has said its preferred plan is to have consultant-led obstetric services, neonatal services including the special care baby unit, in-patient paediatric services and emergency gynaecology services at the Conquest Hospital in Hastings.

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The 670-bed hospital in Smethwick is set to include an accident and emergency department, maternity unit, specialist children's wards and critical care unit.

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The consultation focuses on five areas - the midwifery-led birthing unit, accident and emergency and out of hours, planned care, acute medicine and children's services.

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Last November, Belfast City Hospital's Accident and Emergency Unit closed its doors and the Royal became the main hub of emergency care in Belfast.

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