Patients in Powys, Wales, are feeling increasingly neglected, with extended waiting times and financial challenges within the health board raising serious concerns.
Critics warn that proposed cost-saving measures could worsen the situation, leaving residents with delayed care compared to other areas.
James Evans, the Conservatives’ shadow health secretary, criticised the Powys Teaching Health Board’s plan to ask English healthcare providers to delay treatments for Powys patients.
Representing Brecon and Radnorshire, Mr Evans called the proposal unacceptable, saying, “Powys patients already feel like second-class citizens due to longer waiting times for treatment compared to other areas across the country, and proposals that deliberately extend waiting times will only deepen those problems.”
He also highlighted the ripple effect of delayed care, noting how it increases reliance on GPs, physiotherapists, A&E, and ambulances as patients endure prolonged pain.
Russell George, Conservative Senedd member for Montgomeryshire, described the situation as “ludicrous,” pointing out that 60% of Powys residents receive care in English hospitals.
He remarked, “It’s absurd that Welsh patients could sit in the same hospital as English patients but face longer waits simply because the Powys health board can’t afford to pay for timely treatment.”
Health Secretary Jeremy Miles acknowledged the financial challenges, revealing that the Welsh Government provided additional funding to Powys Teaching Health Board in December.
However, he stressed the importance of budgetary balance, stating, “Powys health board is proposing to ask providers in England to not see patients too quickly because they can’t afford to pay.”
Miles also addressed the pressures of winter, citing a 20% rise in hospitalised cases of flu, Covid-19, and RSV compared to the previous year. He called the growing strain on NHS Wales a critical issue as demand continues to outpace capacity.
Plaid Cymru’s shadow health secretary, Mabon ap Gwynfor, accused the Welsh Government of underinvesting in healthcare infrastructure and mismanaging resources.
He noted worrying trends in vaccination uptake among vulnerable groups, particularly over-65s and healthcare workers.
Labour backbencher Lesley Griffiths echoed concerns over low flu vaccine uptake, with just 27% of NHS staff vaccinated this season. She proposed expanding free flu jab eligibility to everyone over 55 to boost coverage.
As the Powys Teaching Health Board prepares for a pivotal meeting, the pressures on NHS Wales highlight the urgent need for sustainable funding and equitable care. With winter demands intensifying, critics insist that immediate action is essential to prevent worsening inequalities in the healthcare system.
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