Powys Teaching Health Board met today at midday to discuss plans to tackle NHS funding pressures.
James Evans MS has called on the Welsh Labour Government to cover Powys Teaching Health Board’s funding shortfall of £9.9 million to prevent deliberate extensions to waiting times of up to 11 weeks for patients in Mid Wales on top of the record waiting lists the Welsh NHS is currently experiencing.
As Powys has no district general hospital, nearly half of patients in the area receive their care in England.
Commenting, the Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care and local Senedd Member for Brecon and Radnorshire in Powys, James Evans MS said:
“Today’s meeting of Powys Teaching Health Board revealed the severe financial pressures threatening healthcare in Powys. The Board is considering drastic measures, including slowing planned care in England a move that would harm patients already waiting too long for treatment. While a final decision has been delayed to gather more information, the fact that this is even being considered is deeply concerning.”
“This is unacceptable. The Welsh Government must act immediately to provide the funding and support needed to prevent such damaging actions. Patients in Powys should not pay the price for financial mismanagement and inaction from Cardiff Bay.”
“I will not stand by while our communities are left behind. Patients should attend appointments as normal, but I will be demanding urgent action from the Welsh Government to protect healthcare in Powys.”
