Health

State of the NHS in Wales: Balancing challenges and progress

Published

3 months ago

September 29, 2024

THE NHS in Wales continues to navigate a complex landscape of challenges and achievements as it strives to deliver quality healthcare to its population.

Recent reports highlight both the pressures faced by the system and the initiatives underway to address them.

Healthcare professionals across Wales have expressed concerns over increasing workloads and resource constraints. Hospitals are grappling with high patient numbers, leading to extended waiting times for elective surgeries and specialist consultations. According to figures released by NHS Wales in September 2023, the number of patients waiting for treatment exceeded 750,000—a record high.

Emergency departments have reported surges in attendance, putting additional strain on staff and facilities. In August 2023, A&E departments across Wales recorded their busiest summer on record. Dr. Rachel Davies, an A&E consultant at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff, commented, “We’ve seen unprecedented numbers of patients this year. Our staff are working tirelessly, but the demand is overwhelming.”

In rural areas like Pembrokeshire, the situation is compounded by geographical hurdles. This newspaper has recently highlighted concerns over ambulance response times in the county, noting that residents in remote locations often face longer waits for emergency services. Local resident Sarah Jenkins shared her experience: “When my mother fell ill, it took over an hour for the ambulance to arrive. In critical situations, every minute counts.”

A shortage of medical personnel remains a significant issue. Recruitment and retention of doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals are ongoing concerns. The Royal College of Nursing Wales reported in October 2023 that there are over 1,800 nursing vacancies across the country. Many professionals cite burnout and limited resources as factors influencing their decision to leave or avoid joining the NHS workforce in Wales.

Eluned Morgan, the Welsh Minister for Health and Social Services, acknowledged these challenges during a recent Senedd debate. “We are acutely aware of the staffing shortages and the immense pressure our healthcare workers are under,” she said. “Addressing these issues is a top priority for the government. We’re investing in training and recruitment to bolster our workforce.”

Opposition parties have called for more decisive action. Plaid Cymru’s health spokesperson, Rhun ap Iorwerth, stated, “The staffing crisis in our NHS is not just a numbers problem; it’s about the wellbeing of those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. We need urgent measures to support and retain our healthcare professionals.”

In response to the mounting pressures, the Welsh Government has increased funding for the NHS, aiming to improve infrastructure and service delivery. The 2023 budget included an additional £425 million allocated to health and social services. Investments are being made in modernising hospitals, expanding digital healthcare services, and streamlining patient care pathways.

The then First Minister Mark Drakeford addressed the situation during a press briefing in September 2023: “Our commitment to the NHS is unwavering. We are working closely with health boards to tackle waiting times and ensure that everyone in Wales has access to the care they need.”

The government has also launched targeted recruitment campaigns and enhanced training opportunities to bolster staffing levels. “We are investing in our future workforce,” Eluned Morgan added. “By supporting education and providing incentives, we aim to attract new talent to the NHS and retain our valued staff.”

Despite the hurdles, there are success stories emerging within the NHS in Wales. Community-based health programmes are making strides in preventive care, focusing on wellness and early intervention to reduce the burden on hospitals. For instance, the “Healthy Pembrokeshire” initiative aims to promote healthy lifestyles through local events and education.

Telemedicine initiatives have been accelerated, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, enhancing access to care for those in remote areas. Dr. Gareth Thomas, a GP in Ceredigion, noted, “Virtual consultations have been a game-changer for patients who live miles away from the nearest clinic. It has significantly improved access to care and reduced travel times.”

Healthcare professionals are also embracing collaborative approaches, with multidisciplinary teams working together to provide comprehensive care. These efforts aim to improve patient outcomes and increase efficiency within the system.

Patients have offered mixed feedback on the state of the NHS in Wales. While many praise the dedication of healthcare workers and the quality of care received, others express frustration over delays and difficulties in accessing services.

John Evans, a patient awaiting hip surgery, shared his experience with Wales Online: “I’ve been on the waiting list for over 18 months. The pain limits my mobility, and it’s affecting my quality of life. I understand the pressures the NHS is under, but the delays are disheartening.”

Advocacy groups are calling for increased transparency and patient involvement in decision-making processes. The Patients Association Wales has urged the government to “prioritise patient voices in policy development and healthcare planning.”

The Welsh Conservative health spokesperson, Russell George, commented, “Patients are bearing the brunt of systemic failures. The Welsh Government must take responsibility and implement effective strategies to reduce waiting times and improve service delivery.”

The NHS in Wales stands at a critical juncture. Balancing immediate demands with long-term strategic planning is essential to address the systemic issues at hand. Continued investment, innovative solutions, and collaborative efforts between the government, healthcare providers, and communities are key to strengthening the NHS for future generations.

As the nation navigates these challenges, the resilience and commitment of its healthcare professionals remain a beacon of hope. The path forward will require concerted efforts to ensure that the NHS can continue to uphold its founding principles of providing comprehensive, accessible healthcare to all.

Health

Hywel Dda urges responsible use of ‘under pressure’ A&E service

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Tom Sinclair

HYWEL DDA University Health Board is appealing to the public to carefully consider how they access healthcare services as local A&E units, including Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest, face increasing pressure.

A spokesperson said: “Our services are under pressure. Please help us to help you by choosing how you access our services carefully, ensuring that emergency departments (A&E) are reserved for urgent or life-threatening care needs.”

Unwell and unsure what to do?

If you’re unwell and uncertain about the best course of action, the Health Board recommends visiting the online symptom checker or calling NHS 111 Wales for advice.

When to attend A&E

Emergency Departments should only be used for life-threatening illnesses or serious injuries, such as:

Severe breathing difficulties
Severe pain or bleeding
Chest pain or suspected stroke
Serious trauma injuries (e.g., from a car crash)

Minor Injuries Units (MIUs)

For less serious injuries, MIUs offer treatment for:

Minor wounds, burns, or scalds
Insect bites
Minor limb, head, or face injuries
Foreign bodies in the nose or ear

MIUs are available at Cardigan Integrated Care Centre, Tenby Hospital, and main acute hospitals. Visit the Minor Injuries Unit page for opening hours and directions.

Urgent care, not an emergency

For urgent health needs that cannot wait but are not emergencies, call NHS 111 Wales for advice or access to out-of-hours GP services. This free service is available 24/7.

Mental health support

If you need urgent mental health support, call NHS 111 Wales and select option 2 to speak with a mental health professional. The number is free to call, even from a mobile with no credit.

Community care options

Community pharmacies offer walk-in services for common ailments such as sore throats, hay fever, and conjunctivitis. A full list of ailments and participating pharmacies can be found on the Common Ailments Service pages.

Helping reduce hospital stays

The Health Board emphasizes the importance of reducing hospital stays to ensure acute care is available for those who need it most. If a loved one is ready to be discharged, families are urged to collect them promptly to free up beds for other patients.

For more information on the inpatient experience, visit the Inpatient Information pages.

A thank you from the NHS

The Health Board expressed gratitude for the public’s cooperation: “Your support not only helps you and your loved ones but also eases the strain on NHS and social care services.”

For further updates, contact:
Hywel Dda University Health Board Media Office
Email: [email protected]

Health

More than 300 healthcare workers from Kerala take up NHS jobs in Wales

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Tom Sinclair

AN EMPLOYMENT agreement has exceeded its target for recruiting healthcare workers from India.

The Welsh Government outlined a commitment to recruit 250 qualified healthcare workers from India as part of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kerala Government earlier this year.

The recruitment drive has outperformed that goal, with just over 300 healthcare workers taking up positions across all of Wales’ health boards and the Velindre University NHS Trust. Further recruitment is due to take place next year.

The commitment was made as part of Wales in India, a year-long series of events to improve economic, educational, artistic and sporting ties between the two nations.

Sharoon Kolickatharayil Nowshad, 24, had long held ambitions to move to Wales and work as a nurse, inspired by his uncle Siji Salimkutty who began working in the Welsh NHS in 2004.

Since arriving in Wales and beginning his job with Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Sharoon said he has reunited with his family and appreciated the kindness shown by his new colleagues.

“I was really excited to work in the NHS” Sharoon said. “It’s always been my ambition to contribute to society, and now I get to do that here in Wales.

“Everything moved quickly once I saw the opportunity to apply, and I’m proud to work for the NHS. I tell my family and friends that it feels great to help people when they need it the most.

“When you work for the NHS, it’s not just a job or salary. It’s a great life. You feel proud knowing you’ve supported and helped others.

“The NHS has given us a great opportunity and we should always work sincerely because we love our jobs. There are lots of opportunities to advance your career, your colleagues always support you and there’s a great support network.”

Sharoon said he hopes to continue his career in the Welsh NHS by progressing to become an Advanced Nurse Practitioner.

He added: “People in Wales are so kind, they always make time for us, whether that’s at work or at home.

“I would encourage anyone thinking of coming to Wales not to hesitate and to apply, it’s the best decision I’ve made.”

Dr Devangana Bora has taken up a position as a Senior Clinical Fellow in Oncology at Velindre NHS Trust. Born in Guwahati, a large city in the Northeast Indian state of Assam, Dr Bora has worked as an Oncologist since 2019.

“I was really nervous for the interview. When I got there they told me it was in three stages and I became more nervous,” Dr Bora said.

“After the interview, I was offered the job and I was so happy. I thought they were joking. I was so excited to take this next step in my career and move to Wales.

“The weather is cold here but the people are so warm. I have received nothing but support from my colleagues and generally the people in Wales are so friendly and helpful.”

Dr Bora said her sister is currently studying Medicine at university and has been inspired to move to Wales once she completes her studies.

Jeremy Miles, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, said: “Alongside continued investment in training healthcare staff in Wales, international recruitment has always been one of the ways we can help address NHS workforce vacancies.

“India and Kerala in particular has a fantastic record in training doctors and nurses. We are grateful for the commitment to delivering high-quality care our new NHS recruits have shown.

“The contribution of these healthcare workers is already being felt across our NHS and it’s wonderful to see them settling into happy lives in Wales.”

Wales in India was launched on St David’s Day, March 1, by the then First Minister Mark Drakeford and Minister for Health and Social Services Eluned Morgan, beginning a year of events and cultural engagements to strengthen links between the two nations.

One of the biggest impacts on policymaking in India drew inspiration from Wales’ innovative Well-being of Future Generations Act. Through partnership working, the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly introduced its own draft law called the Maharashtra Future Generations Welfare Bill in July.

Welsh Government, the British Council and Wales Arts International also made commitments to further cultural collaborations between Wales and India by investing in arts projects through a dedicated culture fund. With the support of these organisations, as well as the Deputy High Commission in Kolkata, Wales was recently a partner country for Hornbill, one of India’s largest music festivals, which saw Mari Mathias and Gareth Bonello perform on the main stage with Indian musicians Seyievinuo Chuzho and Benedict Hynniewta.

In February 2025, 10 young women, chosen from 140 applicants, will travel to Kolkata to complete humanitarian work as part of a joint project with Urdd Gobaith Cymru and Her Future Coalition. The volunteers will provide support to vulnerable girls including survivors of trafficking and other forms of gender-based violence. Sport and art workshops for children will also be run by the group.

Health

Hoax calls reach three-year high, says Welsh Ambulance Service

Published

4 days ago

December 18, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE WELSH AMBULANCE SERVICE has seen a staggering 37% rise in hoax calls over the past three years, wasting valuable time and resources, a new investigation reveals.

Data from Medical Negligence Assist highlights that over 700 hours—equivalent to nearly 29 full days—of ambulance crew time has been lost responding to malicious calls since 2021.

During this period, WAS crews attended 463 face-to-face incidents later identified as deliberate hoaxes, severely straining emergency services already under pressure.

Rise in hoax calls over three years

2021/22: 334 hoax calls; 84 face-to-face responses.
2022/23: 373 hoax calls; 85 face-to-face responses.
2023/24: 457 hoax calls; 163 face-to-face responses.

The upward trend continues, with provisional figures for 2024/25 (April 1 to October 31) already recording 345 hoax calls and 131 face-to-face responses.

Strain across Wales

The geographic impact is widespread, with hoax calls reported in all areas of Wales. WAS officials warn that such incidents divert resources from genuine emergencies, potentially putting lives at risk.

A call to action

The 701 hours spent on hoax calls between 2021 and 2024 represent a critical drain on ambulance availability. A WAS spokesperson said: “Every minute wasted on a hoax call is a minute lost to someone in real need. These actions have serious, life-threatening consequences.”

“The Welsh Ambulance Service is urging the public to recognize the harm caused by hoax calls and act responsibly.

“For information or to report suspicious activity, contact the Welsh Ambulance Service through their official channels.”