There are major issues with Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board. Our hospitals were left in special measures for over 5 years, with wait times getting longer even before Covid-19 struck, and services are now in targeted intervention. Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, our local hospital, needs immediate support with ambulances waiting outside for hours, extended waiting lists, and the reports identifying bad practice across hospital departments. Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board needs to give the people of the Vale of Clwyd what they desperately need, suitable healthcare services.
Despite being agreed by the Welsh Government over a decade ago, delays and broken promises mean we are yet to see the proposed North Denbighshire Community Hospital. No work has started on the existing Royal Alexandra site in Rhyl, whilst construction costs have increased, waiting lists have grown and local people are suffering. The new fit for purpose hospital alongside the existing vital services will be a modern and much needed. I have called for work to start as soon as possible, but we are yet to see any spades in the ground.
I have backed upgrades to our amazing local pharmacies, like the one I visited in Prestatyn, which helped with the Covid-19 vaccine roll out. Pharmacies play a crucial role in our communities, not only dispensing lifesaving medication, but also offering free advice and emergency supply services.
I will continue to hold Welsh Government to account and speak up for the much-needed improvements needed to support our community.
