A FORMER GP has voiced concerns over the impact 'virtual' wards could have on the future of Halstead Hospital. NHS bosses are launching a six-month pilot scheme in May to help care for patients after they leave hospital. They say 'virtual wards' to treat patients at home will help protect them from the risk of exposure to Covid-19 and mean they can keep in close contact with their families. But Dr Shan Newhouse, who was a GP at Halstead Surgery for 15 years, says she is "very concerned" about the "potential threat" to Halstead Hospital. Dr Newhouse is standing for Labour in the Hedingham ward at next month's county council elections.