Campaign welcomes Cwm Taf Health Board decision not to downgrade A&E at Royal Glamorgan Hospital
The Campaign to Save Royal Glamorgan Hospital A&E (SRGAE) is delighted the recommendation put before the Cwm Taf University Health Board members not to downgrade the unit but to retain it as a 24-hour service has been accepted. It represents the final victory for our vibrant campaign and is a major milestone. We thank the Board members for supporting the recommendations put before them.
Len Arthur, Chair of SRGAE, says: “We are delighted that the Board members have recognised the terrible impact the downgrade of the Royal Glamorgan A&E department would have had on local people. We hope this decision now closes a dark chapter and ushers in a new, brighter one.”
The Campaign notes that recommendations, presented by Dr Nick Lyons, Executive Medical Director, also referred to the establishment of a Partnership Panel. We give a qualified welcome to this idea but it will depend on what it means. “We have said that we are prepared to work with the Board on terms of reference and its membership. If that is acceptable we would be prepared to participate,” says Len Arthur.
Diane Blackmore, Vice-Chair of SRGAE, says: “The Panel for us would be a way of monitoring and stopping any backsliding or stealth cuts. We also need to ensure that its terms of reference are not just about implementing Board decisions, but testing ideas and setting agendas before they get that far.”
The Campaign also thanks the Health Board for making extra provision for the minor injuries unit at Ysbyty Cwm Rhondda Hospital in Llwynypia. It was not one of our demands but it is welcome. The Health Board says a recently retired EM consultant has been recruited and will be working in the minor injuries unit at the hospital two days a week.
The aim is to increase local access for local communities to appropriate minor injury and illness provision. This includes exploring improved access for patients in the Rhondda, especially those who have difficulty in accessing care on the Health Board’s hospital sites.
