MONMOUTH MP David Davies has got together with top health bosses to discuss plans for Wales’ first super-hospital for the critically ill.
Mr Davies met with the Chief Executive and Chair of the Aneurin Bevan Health Board to learn more about proposals for a £292 million Specialist and Critical Care Centre, to be sited in his constituency in Llanfrechfa.
He also raised concerns surrounding the future of Nevill Hall Hospital in Abergavenny.
Speaking afterwards, Mr Davies said: “I’m told plans for the new specialist hospital are firmly back on the agenda. Work is due to start in 2013 and the hospital should be ready by 2017, which is very good news.
“The critical care unit will provide 500 beds over four floors and will focus on all major surgical operations, trauma and major accidents and emergencies. However, with the exception of minor issues, it will mean that most accident and emergency cases will no longer be dealt with at Nevill Hall Hospital.
“My main concern is that the new hospital will add an extra 15-20 minutes onto journey times for residents living in north Monmouthshire and Crickhowell, meaning there is a delay before they receive treatment for a heart attack or stroke.
“The answer I was given, which I think I accept, is that you are not going to be seen the moment the ambulance arrives at Nevill Hall. You have to be triaged first and then face a wait before you are treated. Having spent the day on shift with an ambulance crew, I’m aware this is the case as I’ve witnessed it happening at first hand.
“While some patients in the Abergavenny area will face increased journey times to the new hospital in Llanfrechfa, they should be seen as soon as they arrive and will be dealt with by specialists. This means overall survival and recovery rates for medical emergencies should be much improved.
“I can also categorically state there is no truth in the rumour that the women’s ward at Nevill Hall will close. It would appear there has been some misunderstanding following recent refurbishment work.
“All in all, it was a very productive meeting which, at the very least, clarified a number of important issues”.