News

Nuclear medicine a lifeline for frail patients

Published

9 years ago

January 5, 2016

The radiography team:
With the new imaging machine

A STATE of the art imaging machine in Withybush Hospital’s Radiology department is helping Hywel Dda University Health Board’s frailest patients get treatment closer to home. Nuclear Medicine (NM), a part of the Radiology department, is primarily a cancer detecting service and the new machine, which uses a NM Gamma Camera, combined with a CT scanner when needed, helps Radiology staff give a quicker, more precise diagnosis in appropriate cases.

A focused team of two Superintendent Radiographers, one Clinical Technologist and a NM Assistant use the system and an additional two Radiographers have extended qualifications which enable them to report on the results of the scan. For their patients this means receiving a more streamlined service – often having a single visit, dealing with a single clinical professional and receiving a consistent service – a service approach aligned with the principles of ‘prudent healthcare’.

Lead Superintendent Radiographer for Pembrokeshire, Barry Denton, said: “We’re pleased to be able to offer this service in Withybush Hospital, it prevents our patients having to travel a significant distance for these scans – as far as Chester, Swansea, Neath or Cardiff. “For any patient this is less than ideal but for the more frail cancer patients especially this would have a huge impact on their care and recovery. Our Nuclear Medicine service is of real benefit to people living in the Hywel Dda area.”

In addition to the new NM system the department has been delighted to recruit a full-time Reporting Radiographer, Wynne Griffiths, to give radiological diagnoses on a variety of x-ray images including planned and emergency referrals. Since joining the university health board in 2014, Wynne’s expertise has been of benefit to patients in Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire as well as those in Pembrokeshire.

Having a Radiographer with these skills has allowed the service to save money, provide more timely reports and free-up Consultant time to deal with more complex cases. Mr Denton added: “Recruiting Wynne has been a huge boost to the service. He joined us already trained in skeletal radiography and over the course of his employment here has been trained and developed to now report on chest and abdomen x-rays, too. This uncommon combination of skills means Wynne is a real asset to the Haverfordwest team and to the whole University Health Board.”

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

6 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

7 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

7 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!