 The merger between Bournemouth and Poole was proposed again in 2016 because "the many benefits associated with these changes could be achieved more easily under one management structure.” In 2020 it was finally agreed that Poole Hospital A&E department would be downgraded and emergency services concentrated in Bournemouth.Poole Hospital will get a new urgent treatment centre and 14 surgical theatres.Macmillan Caring Locally is based in Dorset, supporting cancer patients in the county.