Will the Minister liaise with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board so as to establish the possibility of opening the second operating theatre at Llandudno Hospital?
It is up to each health board to provide services to meet the needs of their local population. I expect Betsi Cadwaladr UHB to explore all opportunities to develop services locally and make use of their existing facilities where appropriate.
The health board has been considering the opportunities to develop appropriate services at Llandudno and I have been informed that:
- Plans are already in place to establish a stroke rehabilitation centre at Llandudno hospital with a ward identified. This is expected to open before the end of the year.
- The health board is actively exploring how the second theatre can best be utilised – it will require some work to upgrade.
- The health board is maximising all facilities across its estate to manage the current pressures in both planned and emergency care. There will always be a requirement to access very specialist care in England, but the board has strategic plans to repatriate as much work as possible as part of the ambitions for the regional treatment centre.
- The health board is continuing to review all available premises and services to reduce the pressure on the acute hospitals
With regard to clinical engagement, health boards are under a duty to take account of the representations of their staff and health professionals. Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has many forums to ensure access to clinical colleagues including consultants. There is an established clinical senate, significant representation across their governance and meeting structures and walkabouts across the services form both executives and the board Independent Members. The CEO also ensures she has protected time to meet with staff in their own workspace.