As a result of a number of complaints about experiences at the brand new Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr, Jeff Cuthbert AM and Labour MP Wayne David recently met with the senior management of the Aneurin Bevan Health Board.
Issues which have been raised include the lack of adequate signs outside and inside the Hospital; inadequate nurse coverage of the individual bedrooms; poor catering and organisational problems. The Health Board recognises that there are still considerable misconceptions about what health services the hospital provides. They will consider how best to address these misconceptions and improve lines of communication for the public and especially through GPs.
Labour Jeff Cuthbert AM said;
‘Wayne and I recognise that this is a new type of hospital and there are bound to be teething problems in a large facility like this, but we are pleased that the Health Board is not “in denial” and are taking steps to correct matters. We also accept that the hospital brings new services such as scanners and the mental health unit.
‘However, it’s important that people point out when the service they (or their loved ones) receive is not up to scratch. If complaints are not made then it’s difficult to rectify them. It would be good to hear about nice experiences too!
Caerphilly Wayne David MP said;
‘We’re pleased to say that the senior management assured us that they take these concerns seriously and that actions are being taken. They added that not all the planned services are there yet, as these were scheduled to commence in stages as part of the commissioning plan for the hospital.
‘The Health Board also told us that similar problems were encountered at the new Ysbyty Aneurin Bevan in Ebbw Vale, opened earlier last year, but that these were addressed during the early months and are now largely resolved. I’m confident that the new hospital will be seen as a huge step forward even though there’s a way to go yet.
