With this winter proving to be a challenge for the Welsh NHS, Janet Finch-Saunders AM has spoken out on the need for more support to be provided to help A&E at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board. This follows figures obtained by ITV Wales which show that for the 24-hour period between the mornings of January 1, 2018 and January 2, 2018, Ysbyty Glan Clwyd ensured 48.8% of patients spent less than four hours in its A&E department, Wrexham Maelor 61%, and Ysbyty Gwynedd 57.8%: missing the target is 95%.
Janet said:
“These stats are shocking as it shows that Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is seriously falling behind the target of 95% of patients spending less than four hours in its A&E department.
“The numbers show a significant drop in the target waiting time being met, as, for example, Ysbyty Glan Clwyd has seen a drop from 67.6% to 48.8% since November 2017.
“Whilst the Welsh NHS is under huge pressure again this winter, given that the health board is in special measures, and therefore under the direct control by the Welsh Government, there is no justification for these shocking figures, and the significant reduction in the target being met.
“I look forward to hearing from Vaughan Gething AM, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Services, with regards to what immediate steps the Welsh Government is going to take to help our health board deal with A&E pressures”.
ENDS
Written Assembly Questions submitted by Janet Finch-Saunders AM to Vaughan Gething AM, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Services:
- Will the Cabinet Secretary make a statement on the fact that only 48.8% of patients spent less than four hours in A&E at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd between the mornings of January 1, 2018 and January 2, 2018, and explain what immediate steps the Welsh Government is going to take to help our health board deal with A&E pressures?
Notes
Around 2,000 ambulance hours 'lost' due to delays at hospitals