**Councillor expresses disappointment as Merthyr stroke unit is moved**
In a recent turn of events, the decision to relocate stroke services from Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil has sparked “extreme disappointment” within the local community. Councillor Brent Carter, the leader of Merthyr Tydfil Council, voiced his concerns regarding the move, but also expressed hopes for the services to return promptly. The move involves shifting the acute stroke unit from Prince Charles Hospital to join a similar unit at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant. The relocation was deemed necessary by the health board due to a critical shortage of medical staff, prompting an urgent and temporary change to inpatient stroke services.
Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board (CTMUHB) held a meeting in December to notify key stakeholders, including MPs, Senedd Members, council leaders, and chief executives about the decision. The health board explained that the lack of specialist stroke doctors, exacerbated by prolonged sickness and absence within the CTMUHB stroke team, rendered it unsafe to maintain an acute stroke service across both hospitals. While the move does not affect the emergency departments’ ability to treat stroke patients promptly, those requiring intensive care will be transferred to the centralized unit at Royal Glamorgan Hospital.
Councillor Carter acknowledged the challenges faced by the health board and their efforts to collaborate with clinical teams to enhance capacity. Despite the disappointment over the operational decision leading to the closure of the acute stroke unit at Prince Charles Hospital, the council recognises the necessity behind the move. Looking ahead, they remain hopeful for the swift return of the acute stroke service to the local hospital. The health board assured that individuals presenting with stroke symptoms will receive immediate treatment at the emergency department while addressing staffing issues to ensure sustainable stroke care for the region.
As the community grapples with the impact of the relocation, concerns have been raised about the accessibility and continuity of stroke services in Merthyr Tydfil. The collaboration between health boards and efforts to address staffing challenges underscore the importance of maintaining quality care for stroke patients. While the temporary change may pose challenges in the short term, stakeholders are optimistic about the eventual restoration of vital services at Prince Charles Hospital. The commitment to saving lives and mitigating the effects of strokes remains a top priority for the health board and local authorities.
In response to the public outcry and disappointment, Councillor Carter reiterated the council’s understanding of the health board’s decision and emphasized the need for a safe and sustainable acute stroke service in the community. The collaborative efforts between healthcare providers and authorities demonstrate a commitment to addressing the staffing issues and ensuring the delivery of critical services. Despite the current challenges, stakeholders remain hopeful for the prompt reestablishment of stroke services at Prince Charles Hospital, underscoring the collective dedication to healthcare excellence in Merthyr Tydfil.