North Wales has declared a health emergency due to alarming hospital conditions affecting patients. Conwy County Council is at the forefront of this urgent action, as leaders condemned the “third world” healthcare situation in the region.
Overview of the Health Crisis
The health crisis has prompted all six North Wales county councils to express significant concerns about the increasing prevalence of “corridor care.” This practice is reportedly spreading throughout hospitals in North Wales, specifically in the facilities overseen by the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB).
Council Motion and Demands
During a recent council meeting, Conwy County Council leader Julie Fallon supported a “notice of motion” that criticized the health board’s handling of patient care. Councillor Cheryl Carlisle introduced the motion, stating urgent actions are necessary to address the current state of healthcare. The council’s demands include the following:
- Reopening community hospital beds
- Ending the practice of corridor care in emergency departments
- Halting premature patient discharges
- Reinstating funding for the Conwy West Health Centre project
Health Outcomes in Crisis
A letter from the council leaders highlighted the severity of the situation, indicating that BCUHB has the highest rate of preventable deaths in Wales. Many deaths are linked to extended waiting times in A&E departments. The letter further emphasized that the social care department in Conwy is under intense strain, contributing to worsening health outcomes for residents.
Responses to the Crisis
Julie Fallon stressed that the treatment of patients in corridors represents a significant loss of dignity. She criticized both BCUHB’s chief executive, Carol Shillabeer, and Welsh Government Health Minister Jeremy Miles for their lack of response to the concerns raised by local authorities.
Fallon expressed deep frustration over the deteriorating healthcare conditions, stating, “Enough is enough. We can’t have patients lying in corridors dying.” She urged that this unacceptable situation must be addressed urgently.
Community Support
Local leaders, including Councillor Cheryl Carlisle, echoed these sentiments. They represent the residents of Conwy and are determined that no more dangerous and substandard care should be tolerated. The motion was unanimously supported by the council members.
This decisive action by the Conwy County Council aims to ensure that patients in North Wales receive timely and respectful healthcare, a fundamental expectation in any civilized society. As the crisis continues to unfold, the pressure mounts on the BCUHB and the Welsh Government to implement the necessary changes swiftly.
