Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board: Latest News

Minister promotes learning disability awareness

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 15:34:34 GMT

A project funded by the Welsh Government to promote learning disability awareness and accessible information has been celebrated in an event in Cardiff Bay.

New food labelling system given green light

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 15:26:14 GMT

People will now find it easier to make healthier choices about the food they eat thanks to a new, consistent front of pack food nutritional label.

Safeguarding panel appointed

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 15:18:51 GMT

Four experts have been appointed to a safeguarding advisory panel to look at how the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Bill can strengthen adult and child safeguarding and protection arrangements in Wales.

Emergency Quarters update

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:08:59 GMT

A major North Wales hospital development is changing the skyline of the site... for the better.

Minister launches All Wales Continence Bundle

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 14:18:14 GMT

The Health Minister Mark Drakeford has applauded the development of a package to improve the dignity of adult patients across Wales.

NHS Wales staff mark Falls Awareness Week

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 10:58:04 GMT

NHS Wales staff across the country will be supporting Age UK’s Falls Awareness Week 2013, this week (17-21 June 2013). The aim of the awareness-raising campaign is get people to put their ‘best foot forward’ by keeping their feet healthy to prevent falls in later life.

Put your best foot forward for falls week!

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:36:07 GMT

Falls aren’t an inevitable part of getting older - that’s the key message of this year’s Falls Awareness Week.

Hospital staff celebrate first anniversary of new-look home

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 13:56:23 GMT

Hospital staff are celebrating the first anniversary of a major development which changed the way they worked for the better. Ysbyty Glan Clwyd staff are looking back at their first year of work in the hospital’s redeveloped theatre complex.

Effective support for carers

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 14:08:43 GMT

Deputy Minister for Social Services Gwenda Thomas has marked Carers Week by launching the refreshed Carers Strategy for Wales at a conference organised by the Newport Carers Forum.

Event highlights role of social care

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 10:21:32 GMT

The vital work of social care workers in Wales will be highlighted during Social Care Week with an exhibition stand in Y Bont, the public area of the Welsh Government’s Llandudno Junction office.

New drive to hit cancer target

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 17:16:25 GMT

Patients suspected as having cancer should be seen by a consultant within 10 working days, Health Minister Mark Drakeford announced today.

Changes to the National Immunisation Programme 2013-14 announced

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 15:41:34 GMT

Health Minister Mark Drakeford today announced changes to the Welsh immunisation programme to protect against preventable diseases and infections during a debate on the measles outbreak.

40 per cent rise in doctors in Wales in last decade

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 15:38:28 GMT

New figures show the numbers of doctors, dentists, nurses and midwives in Wales increased by up to 40 per cent between 2002 and 2012.

Surgeon wins 'BEST' Award for Innovation in Education

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 11:49:49 GMT

Mr Anthony Victor Babu Bathula, an Associate Specialist Surgeon with the Local Health Board, has received Wales Deanery’s the ‘Best Doctor in Wales Award’ for Innovation in Education for the year 2012.

Delivery Plan for the Critically Ill

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 11:04:00 GMT

Plans to ensure people in Wales who are critically ill receive the right care, in the right place and at the right time have been published.

New legislation to reform NHS financial regime

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 14:19:26 GMT

A new Bill giving NHS organisations greater flexibility to manage their budgets will be introduced in the next Assembly term as part of the Welsh Government’s legislative programme, Health Minister Mark Drakeford announced today (Monday 10 June).

Listening to patients will help improve care

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 15:59:43 GMT

A new white paper from 1000 Lives Plus explains how listening to patients and understanding what it feels like to experience care is a key way for NHS Wales can improve its services.

Health Board to review infection control management

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 13:56:42 GMT

A leading expert is to be brought in to review Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board’s infection control processes, the health board announced today.

Health Minister marks successes in My Health Online

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 10:11:05 GMT

The Minister for Health and Social Services, Mark Drakeford has seen first-hand the benefits of My Health Online.

Public presentation of the plans for the proposed Llangollen Health Centre

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 16:18:42 GMT

The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board will be presenting the plans for the proposed new Llangollen Health Centre on Tuesday the 11th of June in the first floor hall of Llangollen Town Hall between 3pm and 6.30pm.

Investing in the social care workforce

Fri, 31 May 2013 10:51:05 GMT

Gwenda Thomas, Deputy Minister for Social Services, has announced a grant of over £8 million to train social care workers in Wales [30 May].

Cancer patients will be asked "How are we doing?"

Thu, 30 May 2013 14:35:42 GMT

Cancer patients in Wales will be given the chance to tell the NHS and the Welsh Government what they think about the services they have received.

Photographer's snaps brings countryside to patient centre

Wed, 29 May 2013 10:58:43 GMT

A keen photographer is providing a new topic of conversation for the North Wales Cancer Centre thanks to his love of the countryside.

Priorities for NHS announced

Fri, 24 May 2013 14:18:23 GMT

The new NHS Delivery Framework, setting out the main priorities for the health service for 2013/14, has been published by NHS Wales Chief Executive David Sissling

Minister launches Clinical Research Treatment Unit

Fri, 24 May 2013 14:08:17 GMT

A new facility at Velindre Cancer Centre will enable scientists to study the newest cancer drugs.

Response to Strategic Review of Welsh Ambulance Services

Thu, 23 May 2013 16:19:23 GMT

Mark Drakeford AM, Minister for Health & Social Services:

"I am pleased to provide this Statement to Assembly Members that sets out a first set of decisions in response to Professor Siobhan McClelland’s Strategic Review of Welsh Ambulance Services.

The Health Foundation launches new online patient safety resource centre

Wed, 22 May 2013 15:20:38 GMT

Staying on top of relevant patient safety developments is essential for healthcare staff. The Health Foundation's new patient safety resource centre, www.patientsafetynow.org.uk, pulls together existing evidence and new resources to help deliver safe and reliable care.

Good progress made on health delivery plans

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:40:37 GMT

Health Minister Mark Drakeford has given a six-month update on progress against the Welsh Government’s five year strategy for the health service, Together for Health.

Online seminars will help doctors to champion change in NHS Wales

Tue, 21 May 2013 15:24:11 GMT

“It’s hard to change a culture that involves doctors without doctors being involved in change,” says world-leading expert, Dr Jack Silversin, who is presenting three online seminars hosted by 1000 Lives Plus this summer.

Commitment to Medical Education recognised

Mon, 20 May 2013 14:16:55 GMT

Philip Banfield MBBS MD DA PGCPCE FAcad/Med FRCOG, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Glan Clwyd Hospital has been awarded the Fellowship of the Academy of Medical Educators.

Bryn Hesketh Memory Clinic brings home a Medical "Oscar"

Fri, 17 May 2013 16:10:56 GMT

The Bryn Hesketh Memory Clinic has won the BMJ Mental Health Team of the Year Award.

Minister tells NHS managers: "Listen to your staff and take action"

Fri, 17 May 2013 15:49:02 GMT

Health Minister Mark Drakeford has given a clear message to NHS managers to take action in response to the recent NHS Wales staff survey.

New case study highlights importance of being open after serious incidents

Wed, 15 May 2013 15:31:38 GMT

‘Being Open Following a Serious Clinical Incident’ is a new publication that looks at how a serious clinical incident was handled in a Welsh health board.

Campaign calls for more foster carers

Wed, 15 May 2013 11:05:09 GMT

A campaign has begun to highlight the difference that fostering can make.

Protect yourself against measles and encourage your friends to do the same

Tue, 14 May 2013 15:52:49 GMT

Young people who have already had two MMR jabs to protect themselves against measles are being asked to encourage their friends to also get protected.

Dementia RED (Respect Empathy Dignity) Roadshow to hit North Denbighshire

Tue, 14 May 2013 15:13:16 GMT

On Friday May 24 a RED (Respect Empathy Dignity) Roadshow to raise awareness of Dementia will be visiting Rhyl and Prestatyn.

Cooking up food care for North Wales communities

Mon, 13 May 2013 13:11:25 GMT

A healthy cooking initiative bringing family and friends together over a love of food, is spreading its benefits across North Wales communities.

Royal College of Midwives Chief Executive opens new birthing unit in Wrexham

Fri, 10 May 2013 12:06:06 GMT

Today, Thursday 9th May, the Chief Executive of the Royal College of Midwives Prof Cathy Warwick CBE, visited Wrexham Maelor Hospital to perform the official opening of the new Midwifery-Led Unit.

Health Minister launches Heart Disease Delivery Plan

Thu, 09 May 2013 14:44:30 GMT

The Health Minister, Mark Drakeford, has launched Together for Health; A Heart Disease Delivery Plan – a framework challenging the NHS to continuously improve cardiac services in Wales.

Hospital contractors create comfort for young cancer patients

Wed, 08 May 2013 10:11:34 GMT

A hospital project team is putting a smile on young patients’ faces by helping to brighten up their stay.

Health boards can apply for cutting-edge technology

Tue, 07 May 2013 15:32:39 GMT

Health Minister Mark Drakeford and Finance Minister, Jane Hutt announced the second phase of the Health Technologies Fund (HTF) during a joint visit to Velindre Hospital today (7th May).

2013 Military and Civilian Health Partnership Award Finalists Announced

Tue, 07 May 2013 15:31:57 GMT

The judging for the 2013 Military and Civilian Health Partnership Awards (MCHPA) has been completed.

Expert group to consider regulation of cosmetic surgery

Tue, 07 May 2013 15:28:01 GMT

An expert group will be set up to consider whether tighter regulation of cosmetic surgery in Wales is necessary, Health Minister Mark Drakeford announced today (Monday 6 May 2013).

£9.5m Welsh Government funding for new ambulances

Tue, 07 May 2013 15:24:12 GMT

Health Minister Mark Drakeford has announced funding of £9.484m a major upgrade of the Welsh Ambulance Services fleet of vehicles.

State of the art front of house unit opened at Bronglais

Tue, 07 May 2013 15:18:27 GMT

Health Minister Mark Drakeford was in Aberystwyth today to open officially the new £38m front of house area at Bronglais hospital.

NHS Wales staff survey results published

Tue, 07 May 2013 15:13:17 GMT

The results from a new survey of more than 22,000 NHS staff were published today (Friday 3 May) by Health Minister Mark Drakeford.

Health Minister highlights importance of bowel screening

Tue, 07 May 2013 15:12:06 GMT

The Minister for Health and Social Services, Mark Drakeford, has visited the Bowel Screening Centre in Llantrisant to mark the end of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month.

Children aged 10-18 targeted in Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board immunisation campaign

Fri, 03 May 2013 15:40:40 GMT

More than 10 000 children and young people under the age of 18 in the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board area still unprotected from measles according to Public Health Wales.

Health Board announced as winner of the CHKS data quality (celtic) award

Fri, 03 May 2013 13:29:30 GMT

The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has repeated its 2012 success and won the CHKS Top Hospitals programme data quality (celtic) award 2013.

BCU Healthboard shortlisted for CHKS data quality (Celtic) award

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 16:36:18 GMT

The BCU Healthboard has been shortlisted for the CHKS Top Hospitals programme data quality (Celtic) award 2013.

£4.8 million investment in support services at Morriston Hospital

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:51:18 GMT

Health Minister Mark Drakeford AM has announced a £4.805m investment in a new Combined Services Centre at Morriston Hospital, Swansea.

Director of Public Health warns that there will be Measles cases in North Wales

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:44:17 GMT

The Director of Public Health for North Wales, Andrew Jones today warned that it was only a matter of time until there were cases of measles in North Wales unless more children are vaccinated.

Appointment of Vice-Chair to Aneurin Bevan Health Board

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 11:52:59 GMT

Health Minister Mark Drakeford has announced the appointment of Professor Siobhan McClelland as Vice-Chair of Aneurin Bevan Health Board.

Appointment of Independent Members to Cardiff & Vale University Health Board

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 11:41:22 GMT

Health Minister Mark Drakeford has announced three Independent Member appointments to Cardiff & Vale University Health Board.

Hospital doctor digs deep to help rural patients

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 15:34:06 GMT

A North Wales doctor battled the elements to reach the region’s toughest rural land during adverse winter weather to help people in need.

Choose Well Challenge Winner announced

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 14:27:53 GMT

A sports mad young adult has been rewarded for playing her part in helping the NHS provide the right care to the right person.

Action to tackle pressure on A&E departments

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 16:55:21 GMT

Health Minister Mark Drakeford has today (Tuesday 23 April) set out a number of immediate actions to tackle pressures on emergency health services in Wales, along with longer-term plans to ensure future problems are prevented.

North Wales children urged to get MMR

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 14:41:47 GMT

Public Health professionals are urging parents in North Wales to act quickly to vaccinate their children against measles.

Improving end of life care in Wales

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:20:01 GMT

Plans setting out how people in Wales will be supported and cared for at the end of their life were launched today (Thursday 18 April).

Putting well-being for all at the heart of social services

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 15:58:33 GMT

An innovative new document has been published by the Welsh Government to improve the well-being of people who need care and support and carers who need support

Health Minister debates general principles of Human Transplantation (Wales) Bill

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 11:11:06 GMT

The Minister for Health and Social Services, Mark Drakeford, has pledged to steer safely to completion legislation to increase the number of organs available to patients on the transplant waiting list.

Medical students set for graduation with cancer centre support

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 15:40:54 GMT

A trio of students are preparing to say a fond farewell to staff and patients who have helped them develop their career path.

Written Statement by the Welsh Government: The Measles Outbreak

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 10:25:04 GMT

Mark Drakeford AM, Minister for Health and Social Services has delivered a written statment about the recent measles outbreak in Wales.

Early Years Pharmacy

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:26:07 GMT

A new pilot project has been launched in North Wales where pharmacy staff will be able to give health promotion advice to families regarding pregnancy and children in the early years of life (0-5 year olds).

Raising the international profile of improvements in NHS Wales

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 16:12:09 GMT

Healthcare professionals from across the world will find out about improvements in the quality of care and patient safety in NHS Wales, at the International Forum on Quality and Safety in Healthcare in London from 16-19 April.

Food for thought as hospital caterers gather in Wales

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 10:50:11 GMT

Hospital caterers from across the UK are in Wales this week to discuss food and nutrition and the role it plays in healthcare.

'Parabl' Talking Therapies Service

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 10:33:02 GMT

The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is investing nearly £1.5million over 5 years in Counselling services for people with common mental health problems.

Organ donor numbers show there is more work to be done in Wales, says Health Minister

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 10:32:02 GMT

Health Minister Mark Drakeford has welcomed the NHSBT announcement that there has been a 50 per cent increase in deceased organ donors across the UK in the five years since the publication of the UK Organ Donation Taskforce Report. He thanked health professionals in Wales for their hard work to encourage more donations

NHS response to Measles outbreak praised

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 10:22:42 GMT

Health Minister Mark Drakeford AM has thanked NHS staff for their response to the Measles outbreak in the Swansea area and called on parents, carers and communities to ensure that children have the MMR vaccination.

STOP Campaign builds on successful first year

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 11:30:36 GMT

The STOP Campaign to improve the safety of patient care through better use of catheters and cannulas is making a difference to patients across Wales.

Congratulations to our Champions for Health -- from Lord Coe!

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 15:52:59 GMT

Lord Coe, Olympic and Paralympic Legacy Ambassador, has sent a special message to NHS Wales staff who have taken part in the Champions for Health campaign.

Appointment of Vice-Chair to Cardiff and Vale University Health Board

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 14:41:33 GMT

Health Minister Mark Drakeford has announced the appointment of Professor Marcus Longley as Vice-Chair of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.

Recognition for state of the art modular hospital facility

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 12:47:20 GMT

A new addition to facilities at a North Wales Hospital has been recognised for its state of the art modular build.

Consultation on draft regulations that will give effect to the new statutory food hygiene rating scheme for Wales

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 11:49:09 GMT

The Welsh Government is asking for public opinion on draft regulations that will give effect to the new statutory food hygiene rating scheme for Wales established by the Food Hygiene Rating (Wales) Act 2013. The Act received Royal Assent on 4 March 2013.

Consultant leaves lasting legacy for hospital users

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 11:35:47 GMT

A familiar face who has helped shape the future of a North Wales hospital is standing down after over three decades of service in the NHS.

Building a new system for paying for care in Wales

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:28:59 GMT

The Deputy Minister for Social Services has issued a written statement outlining her intent to build on the reforms already introduced in Wales for paying for care.

New Health Minister starts work

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 10:34:02 GMT

Mark Drakeford AM has been sworn in as Minister for Health and Social Services and has begun looking at the wide range of issues in his portfolio, including NHS reconfiguration, the legislative programme, and the financial position of the NHS in Wales.

Adverse weather update

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 13:35:26 GMT

We expect to resume normal services at the Wrexham Maelor today Monday 25th March.

Adverse Weather Notice

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 11:34:31 GMT

A Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board Spokesperson said: “Following the impact of the heavy snow fall this morning, we have taken the difficult decision to cancel all outpatient appointments at the Wrexham Maelor hospital today as driving conditions remain extremely difficult in the area.

Improved transparency of NHS information: hospital mortality data

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 10:59:14 GMT

Local Health Boards in Wales have today (21 March) published hospital mortality data on their websites.

STOP Campaign launched in Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 15:31:08 GMT

Hospital staff in Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board have been invited to join in the 1000 Lives Plus STOP Campaign to improve the safety of patient care through better use of catheters and cannulas.

The Patients' Voice -- strengthening the role of Community Health Councils in Wales

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 10:52:35 GMT

Bodies representing patients across Wales will be strengthened following a review of the role of Community Health Councils.

New Health Minister starts work

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 14:30:32 GMT

National Oral Health Plan -- something to smile about

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 10:52:08 GMT

Wales’ Chief Dental Officer (CDO), David Thomas, has launched the Welsh Government’s National Oral Health Plan on the same day a survey shows a decrease in tooth decay in Welsh children.

Don't let drink sneak up on you

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 14:39:28 GMT

As the Six Nations draws to a close, the Chief Medical Officer for Wales has issued a reminder about the harm caused by alcohol and given some simple suggestions to cut down on the amount you drink.

Revolutionary machine arrives to help cancer patients

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 12:51:30 GMT

The next generation of machine technology is set to bring state of the art radiotherapy treatment to North Wales Cancer patients.

Man's best friend brings comfort to cancer patients

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 16:45:53 GMT

A four-legged friend is bringing support and comfort to cancer patients by sharing his own personal tale against the illness.

Developing Dementia Care in our hospitals

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 15:31:50 GMT

The BCU Health Board is taking part in the Royal College of Nursing ‘Dementia care in general hospitals’ development programme.

Renal Unit Garden Open Day

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 10:37:31 GMT

TV Presenter Tim Vincent will be visiting Wrexham Maelor Hospital on World Kidney Day, Thursday 14^th March to attend the Renal Unit Open Day and launch their newly developed garden area.

Welsh A&E departments under increased pressure

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 14:51:41 GMT

Welsh accident and emergency departments have seen a significant rise in the number of patients in the last week, prompting the Health Minister, Lesley Griffiths, to urge everyone to Choose Well.

Minister highlights Welsh Government campaign on No Smoking Day

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 10:07:56 GMT

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths has highlighted the Welsh Government’s Fresh Start Wales campaign which aims to reduce children’s exposure to second-hand smoke, on this year’s No Smoking Day.

Action to improve safety, dignity and quality of care

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 09:11:23 GMT

New moves to ensure safe, dignified care for patients and drive up quality standards have been announced by Health Minister Lesley Griffiths as part of the Welsh Government’s initial response to the Francis Inquiry, which made recommendations following failures in care at Mid Staffordshire NHS Trust.

Action to improve safety, dignity and quality of care

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 17:40:24 GMT

New moves to ensure safe, dignified care for patients and drive up quality standards were announced today by Health Minister Lesley Griffiths.

Films set to help NHS staff and patients give up smoking

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 15:53:53 GMT

Stop Smoking Day 13^th March 2013. On Stop Smoking day 2013, a series of films will be launched to encourage people to give up smoking.

Health Minister announces £1.2m investment in technology and equipment

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:37:00 GMT

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths AM has announced a £1.2m investment for Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board.

Health Minister: £4.6m investment in advanced cancer treatment technology and new service for Wales

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 10:52:35 GMT

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths has announced an £4.6m investment in cutting-edge cancer treatment technology at Velindre Cancer Centre.

NHS Wales Awards Finalists Announced

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 11:55:03 GMT

Supporting home births, reducing waiting times for vasectomy patients and improving services for older people are just some of the projects that have made the finals of this year’s NHS Wales Awards, announced today (March 11, 2013).

'No Smoking Day' event for residents of Caia Park, Wrexham

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 11:50:52 GMT

A “No smoking Day” event for the residents of Caia Park in Wrexham is planned for 13th March 2013 between 2 and 4pm at Kingsley Circle Community Centre, Caia Park, Wrexham.

Health Minister opens discussions at cancer symposium

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 14:43:22 GMT

The Minister for Health and Social Services, Lesley Griffiths, will today (6th March) open the Cancer Research Wales conference focussing on cancer research and treatment in Wales.

Innovative lifestyle programme helps patients get into shape for surgery

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 14:33:09 GMT

A new weight and exercise support programme is reaping benefits for the people of North Wales, as the Minister for Health and Social Services, Lesley Griffiths AM discovered on a recent visit to Prestatyn Leisure Centre.