Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board: Latest News

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.

Hospice gets 'helping hand' with their appeal

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 14:24:53 GMT

A North Wales hospice has been given a cash boost to help improve patient experience to complete its vital redevelopment.

Launch of the 'Mental Health Matters' website

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 13:11:57 GMT

Merfyn Jones, Chairman of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board will officially launch the ‘Mental Health Matters’ Website and Wall at Ysgol Syr Thomas Jones, Amlwch on Monday, 11 March 2013.

Llangollen Health Services move into new home

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 11:00:25 GMT

A number of health services currently based in Llangollen Hospital will be relocating at the end of this week.

Choose your local pharmacist for health help on your doorstep

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 10:20:14 GMT

A short trip down the road or into town could save a visit to the GP and support a healthy lifestyle, a health campaign highlights this week.

A national approach to improving services across NHS Wales

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 11:22:32 GMT

Staff across NHS Wales are going to be increasing the quality of services for their patients and public through the introduction of quality improvement skills.

A National Approach to Improving Services Across NHS Wales

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 09:59:20 GMT

Staff across NHS Wales are to be equipped with new skills to help them improve the quality of services for their patients and the public.

Appointment of Independent Member (Local Authority Representative) to Cwm Taf Health Board

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 10:22:12 GMT

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths today (27/02/2013) announced the appointment of Cllr Michael Forey as Independent Member to Cwm Taf Health Board.

Access to GP surgeries continues to improve

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 10:46:20 GMT

The number of GP practices in Wales offering early evening appointments increased over the last year new figures published today show.

Health staff are lending a helping hand to cancer patients wanting to keep physically active

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 09:51:48 GMT

A Physical Activity Awareness Session was held at The Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre in Ysbyty Glan Clwyd on the 6^th February.

Priorities for tackling substance misuse in Wales 2013-15 published

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 14:40:51 GMT

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths has outlined the Welsh Government’s priorities for tackling substance misuse between 2013-15.

Students set simulation to challenge responder skills

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:31:20 GMT

North Wales emergency medical first responders were put through their paces during a unique training simulation on the grounds of an airport.

Renewed warning of the dangers of taking illegal drugs

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 16:00:29 GMT

Two young people from the Anglesey area have fallen ill and required hospital treatement after taking what are commonly called Pink Love tablets. The cases have come to light in the past week.

New blog invites discussion on improving care and delivering quality

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 14:03:17 GMT

People interested in improving the quality of healthcare in NHS Wales can comment and discuss key issues on a blog launched by 1000 Lives Plus, the national programme supporting organisations and individuals to deliver the highest quality and safest healthcare for the people of Wales.

Minor Injuries Services in North Wales

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 15:59:16 GMT

The new opening hours for the minor injuries service across the region are listed below.

NHS Wales Staff Survey extended for entries until 28 February

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 11:23:22 GMT

All NHS Wales staff are encouraged to take part in the NHS Wales Staff Survey. The survey has been developed by the Welsh Partnership Forum, which includes representatives of staff organisations as well as Health Boards and Trusts.

Health Minister: £16.3m investment in specialist rehab services

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 10:45:44 GMT

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths AM today announced an investment of £16.344m in specialist neurological, spinal rehabilitation and elderly care services, to be based at the University Hospital Llandough.

Llandrillo College students join the Big Health Debate

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 10:49:56 GMT

Encouraging families to live healthier together could be one way of improving health in Wales, according to a group of students from Llandrillo College’s Llanrwst campus.

Care closer to home thanks to £2.49m investment

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 14:47:37 GMT

The Health Minister, Lesley Griffiths, has announced nearly £3m for a development which will allow heart patients in north Wales to receive care closer to home.

The Report of the Public Inquiry into Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 14:25:48 GMT

Lesley Griffiths AM, Minister for Health and Social Services has issued a written statement on behalf of the the Welsh Government.

Minister congratulates Morriston Hospital staff on eradicating bed sores

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 10:39:34 GMT

An initiative aimed at reducing pressure ulcers in patients at a Swansea hospital has been an overwhelming success with hospital staff effectively eradicating pressure ulcer formation on seven of their wards.

1000 Lives Plus response to The Francis Report

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 09:34:44 GMT

The final report of the Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust Public Inquiry from Robert Francis has now been published. Whilst its findings are based on the care delivered by one NHS organisation – its conclusions have far reaching consequences and application for every organisation and individual involved in providing care.

Minister congratulates Morriston Hospital staff on eradicating bed sores

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 09:00:03 GMT

Healthy Working Wales Awards announced

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 14:28:58 GMT

Businesses and organisations who have worked to improve the health and well-being of their staff were celebrated at an awards ceremony in Cardiff today.

Community Health Service Change

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:06:55 GMT

At the meeting of the Health Board on 18^th January it was decided to move forward with changes to the way some health services are delivered in North Wales. Planning is now underway to enable these changes to take place.

Could a ban on super-size fizzy drinks make a difference? Join the public health debate

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 11:52:33 GMT

Regulating fizzy drink and portion sizes could have a real impact in tackling Wales’s rising obesity rates, the country’s top doctor said today.

New online health check for over-50s

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 11:40:36 GMT

Online assessments and community-based support will enable over-50s in Wales to assess and improve their own health, Health Minister Lesley Griffiths has announced today.

Visual support reaches out to deaf mental health patients

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 14:51:38 GMT

Deaf community members struggling to cope with mental health issues can now access online support and direction thanks to a new initiative launched this week.

£300,000 funding for Cylch Caron project in Ceredigion

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 11:34:20 GMT

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths today announced more funding for an innovative scheme which offers a new model of care involving partnerships with the Local Health Board, GPs, the local authority and the third sector in Tregaron and the surrounding areas.

Keir Hardie Health Park officially opened

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 11:26:46 GMT

The Minister for Health and Social Services, Lesley Griffiths, has cut the ribbon on the £34m state-of-the-art Keir Hardie Health Park.