Health Minister Edwina Hart and Chief Executive of NHS Wales Paul Williams have paid tribute to the work of health and social care staff over the last year and for their efforts to keep vital services running during the recent adverse weather conditions.
They also appealed to the public to help reduce the pressure on emergency and unscheduled care services by choosing the most appropriate service for their needs.
The Health Minister has sent a personal Christmas message to all staff thanking them for their efforts over the year and the last few days in particular.
Mrs Hart said:
“I’d like express my thanks to all of the NHS staff in Wales for all their effort and the dedication they display everyday throughout the year, and especially over the last few days when the weather conditions have severely increased pressure.
“Not only is there additional pressure from a rise in patients requiring attention during this time, but the treacherous conditions are making it more difficult for staff to get to and from work safely.
”The weather is of course having an adverse affect to some services and this is unavoidable, but the NHS is doing all it can to ensure that people who need medical care receive essential services.
“The ambulance service is having difficulties across Wales reaching patients for emergency calls as well as ensuring patients can be returned home following treatment.
“Extra capacity is being made available where necessary and work is underway to ensure that there are adequate staffing levels, particularly in the Emergency Departments, which are busier than ever.
“The public can play their role in reducing the pressure on the NHS by considering whether they need to attend hospital and making use of the most appropriate service. Choosing well ensures patients receive the best and quickest care, leaving busy NHS services and emergency services available to help those who need them most.”
Paul Williams added:
“It’s down to the hard work and commitment of NHS staff that we are able to continue to deliver essential services to the public.
“The recent bad weather, in conjunction with the Christmas period, has increased demands on services considerably and it is important that the dedication of NHS workers is acknowledged.”
