Updates on Tenby Cottage Hospital becoming a healthcare hub for the area and matters concerning the town’s doctor’s surgery were on the list of topics discussed at a recent meeting of the South East Pembrokeshire Community Health Network

Chair Mansel Thomas was delighted to welcome so many people from the NHS to the meeting which was held at New Hedges Village Hall last week, including - Elaine Lorton, county director, Debbie Morgan, new Tenby surgery practice manager, Matt McGovern business manager of GMS, Jon Adams, project manager, Mandy Hewkins, Care nurse.

After the minutes of the last meeting were read, an answer to a question about the progress of the proposed new urgent care hospital was given by Elain Lorton, who explained that lots of ideas about its location were still being looked at, and that it would take a long time for a decision to be taken.

The importance of the integration of the health and social care project was fully explained. It is being built around the needs of everyone from birth to death.

The Health Board needs to connect with society to provide care in the right place either in hospital or at home it was said, with more care needed from district nurses, palliative nurses, dentists, opticians, pharmacies, so that people only go to hospital when there is a specific need.

This led to a big discussion as to how the H&SC team could be co-ordinated, and how those needing care would be brought to the attention of the care team and how suitable care packages could be put in place. It seems that more staff will be needed.

Jon Adams the project manager would like to hear more stories about how things are impacting on people’s lives.

Mrs. Lorton hopes that by the time of the next meeting more tangible news will be available

The WIC is fully staffed by dedicated nurses for five days a week. A financial review is ongoing about summer weekend openings.

In the quieter winter months consideration is being given to the nurses helping with other health care needs.

The hope is for the hospital in Tenby to become a health care hub for the area, and Mr. Thomas said that he was delighted that things are going well and hopeful for the future.

An update on the Tenby surgery was given by Debbie Morgan the new practice manager.

There are vacancies for a deputy practice manager, a practice nurse, and a practice pharmacist, with all these posts advertised.

The phlebotomist has just returned to work after extended sick leave, so blood test appointments will now return to normal.

A physiotherapist will be based at the Tenby Surgery every Monday to assess the needs of patients with soft tissue, muscle and joint problems.

The GP situation is improving, and one of the locums has now applied to become a salaried practitioner.

Getting appointments is still problematic, though being allowed to sit inside and being given a number is helpful.

About supplies of medication being affected by Brexit -it was explained that 3 to 6 months of equipment and medication has been stored.