A couple from the Ammanford area in their 50s had a harrowing experience when they had to take the woman’s seriously ill partner to the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department at Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen. This was after there were no ambulances available to transport them to the hospital, despite the man’s deteriorating health condition. The couple arrived at the hospital to find the waiting room filled with patients, some of whom had been waiting for hours. The scene was chaotic, with patients deciding to leave before being seen and rubbish overflowing from bins.
The woman, who preferred not to disclose their identities, shared their experience, expressing shock and disappointment at the state of affairs they encountered at the hospital. Given the man’s history of serious health issues, including a kidney transplant and sepsis, the situation was particularly distressing for the couple. Their hope for a smooth and efficient experience at the hospital was quickly shattered as they faced long wait times and a lack of available resources.
The couple’s ordeal began late on a Monday night in February when the man’s health rapidly deteriorated. Despite seeking advice from the NHS 111 service and calling for an ambulance, they were informed that no ambulances were available. Left with no choice, the woman had to drive her partner to the hospital in the cold night air, worsening his condition. Upon arrival, they were met with a crowded waiting room where patients were enduring lengthy wait times and inadequate care.
The couple witnessed concerning incidents during their time at the A&E department, including a lack of support for patients in distress and a general neglect of basic care and cleanliness. Patients were observed waiting for hours, some in critical conditions, without receiving timely attention. The woman described a scene of chaos and neglect, with staff engaging in personal conversations while patients struggled to receive the care they urgently needed.
After an agonising seven-hour wait, the woman’s partner was finally seen by medical staff, prescribed antibiotics, and sent home. The couple’s experience highlighted the strain on resources and the lack of compassion and care they encountered during their time at the hospital. The woman expressed deep sadness at witnessing elderly patients suffering in silence and the deteriorating state of the healthcare system.
In response to concerns raised about the conditions at Glangwili Hospital, Sharon Daniel, the interim executive director of nursing, quality and patient experience at Hywel Dda University Health Board, expressed regret over the couple’s ordeal. She encouraged individuals to provide feedback on their experiences and assured that efforts would be made to address the issues raised. The couple’s experience sheds light on the challenges faced by patients seeking medical attention and the need for improvements in healthcare delivery and patient care.
The couple’s account serves as a sobering reminder of the pressures faced by healthcare systems and the impact on individuals seeking medical assistance. Their story underscores the importance of timely and compassionate care for all patients, especially those in critical conditions. As healthcare providers strive to meet the needs of an increasing number of patients, it is essential to prioritise patient well-being and ensure that every individual receives the care and attention they deserve.