News

AM discusses doctor training

Published

11 years ago

January 23, 2014

REBECCA EVANS AM has attended a workshop to ensure that doctor training in Wales delivers a workforce with the skills that meet the needs of both the public and NHS.

The workshop was led by the Wales Deanery, the body whose responsibility it is to commission, quality assure and support the education and training of trainees, hospital doctors, GPs, and dentists in Wales.

The workshop came in response to the Greenaway Review.

Mrs Evans explained: “In 2011, it was agreed that Professor David Greenaway, the Vice Chair of Nottingham University, should act as independent Chair of an expert group which would consider and make recommendations on various aspects of doctor training. These aspects included workforce needs and the balance between specialists and generalists, the breadth and scope of training, and patient needs.”

Professor Greenaway issued a report towards the end of last year, making nineteen recommendations.

The Wales Deanery held the workshop to explore the implications of the report and recommendations for Wales.

Mrs Evans said: “The report makes some interesting recommendations in terms of delivering a workforce in future where doctors have a wider base of general skills enabling them to treat a greater range of patients safely and effectively.

“The current model of medical training is based on a high degree of specialisation and sub-specialisation of medical practice – there are more than 60 specialities and 35 sub-specialities. This model means that the workforce is heavily weighted towards specialisation, but what we need are more generalists – particularly, it could be argued, in Wales’ more rural hospitals.

“The report also suggests moving to a model where doctors specialise based on the identified needs of the local population and the NHS. This is a real shift from the current practice which is led by individuals’ own preferences which do not necessarily best meet the health needs of the public.”

The Greenaway Review is a UK-wide piece of work. A key recommendation of the review was that “There should be immediate consideration to set up a UK-wide Delivery Group to take forward the recommendations in this report and to identify which organisations should lead on specific outcomes.”

Mrs Evans said “I understand that there is already a four-nation approach to this, which should be welcomed. Wales’ Heath Minister, Mark Drakeford, is the only one of the four Health Ministers so far to have formally responded to the report – I am glad we are leading the way.”

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

15 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

1 day 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

1 day 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!