Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board: Latest News

Have your say on Welsh language services in health and social care

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:40:24 GMT

The Deputy Minister for Children and Social Services, Gwenda Thomas, has launched a consultation on how to strengthen Welsh language services to meet the care needs of Welsh speakers, their families and carers.

100th stroke patient receives clot busting drug at Morriston

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:15:52 GMT

Morriston’s 100th patient to receive a clot busting drug, which reduces the after effects of stroke, has made a complete recovery, less than a month after treatment.

The rights and voices of children have to be at the heart of the Family Justice System

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:28:53 GMT

The Deputy Minister for Children and Social Services, Gwenda Thomas, has emphasised that the rights and voices of children must be at the heart of the family justice system in Wales.

Campaign to protect children from smoking in cars

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:19:31 GMT

A Welsh Government campaign to protect children from the harmful effect of second hand smoke in cars has begun.

Views sought on Welsh pharmaceutical regulations

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:09:29 GMT

The Welsh Government has opened a consultation on modernising pharmaceutical regulations in Wales.

Red pegs mean privacy please!

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:08:57 GMT

A simple new system of red pegs is being used to safeguard patients’ privacy and dignity while they are on an ABMU hospital ward.

Mobile dental unit successfully launched

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:47:45 GMT

ABM University Health Board's brand new mobile dental unit which will be visiting schools in Swansea and Neath Port Talbot has had a successful launch at Swansea's Clywd School. (with video)

ABM super seven deliver excellent results

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:20:44 GMT

Seven health care support workers have become the first accredited Maternity Care Assistants (MCA) in ABM.

Appointment to Chair of Cardiff and Vale University Local Health Board

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:24:12 GMT

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths today (02/02/2012) announced the appointment of Ms Maria Battle as Chair of Cardiff & Vale University Local Health Board. She succeeds Mr David Francis when he stands down on the 31 March 2012.

The future of Clydach War Memorial Hospital

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:09:22 GMT

The future of Clydach War Memorial Hospital is currently being considered. Changes in service provision at the hospital, or changes taking place shortly, means it will soon become nearly empty.

Maesteg Hospital mental health beds transferred to state-of-the-art new facility

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:09:05 GMT

Maesteg Hospital will continue to play an important role in delivering healthcare following the woutcome of a wide-ranging public engagement process over the future of mental health services within ABMU health Board.

New Drive To Attract More Doctors To Wales

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:15:18 GMT

A fresh campaign to encourage more doctors to apply to work in Wales was launched by Health Minister Lesley Griffiths today.

Health Minister calls in to Wales' only adult Cystic Fibrosis unit

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:47:43 GMT

Lesley Griffiths, Minister for Health and Social Services, has taken a tour of the only adult Cystic Fibrosis (CF) unit in Wales.

Sara is Swansea University's Welsh Student Nurse of the Year

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:15:24 GMT

There was a double celebration for Sara Davies from Porthyrhyd in Carmarthenshire last Friday, when she graduated with First Class Honours in Nursing from Swansea University’s College of Human and Health Sciences.

Maesteg pupils launch drug and alcohol misuse awareness video

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:17:34 GMT

A group of 12-13 year olds from Maesteg Comprehensive School in the Llynfi Valley have created an animated video aimed at raising awareness of the potential consequences of drug and alcohol misuse. To support them, we'll be running the video on our network of ABMU information screens throughout February.

Health Minister applauds Hospice's dignity in end-of-life care

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:03:02 GMT

Lesley Griffiths, Minister for Health and Social Services, has commended the high-quality care given at the Marie Curie Hospice in Penarth.

Consultation on new Child Practice Reviews

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:40:00 GMT

The Welsh Government has opened a consultation on practice guidance to support the new Child Practice Reviews framework that will replace current Serious Case Review procedures.

Ban on sale of cigarettes from vending machines in Wales -- one week to go

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:35:19 GMT

There is one week to go until a new law is introduced in Wales which will ban the sale of cigarettes from vending machines. The move is part of the Welsh Government’s efforts to safeguard young people and children from the harmful effects of smoking.

A Stronger Voice and Real Control in Social Services

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:19:59 GMT

A stronger voice and real control is one of the principal aims of the new wide-ranging Social Services Bill for Wales, announced by Gwenda Thomas, the Deputy Minister for Children and Social Services.

Faster access to cardiac tests for ABM patients

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:10:42 GMT

ABM cardiac patients now have quicker and easier access to specialist tests which look at the blood flow in their heart. For the first time in Wales, a Clinical Scientist has been trained to carry out the tests, which are usually done by Consultants.

Mobile unit bringing smiles to schools

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:03:25 GMT

ABM University Health Board is delighted to be launching a brand new mobile dental unit which will be visiting schools in Swansea and Neath Port Talbot.

Nocturnal dialysis unit receives cash boost

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:16:41 GMT

Take one holiday company and two doting grandchildren and this unlikely team have helped raise £840 for the Renal Self Care Unit at Morriston Hospital.

Supermeals helping people in Wales eat better on a budget

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:41:15 GMT

Change4Life is sending out thousands of free recipe brochures to help people in Wales plan and cook healthy evening meals that won’t break the bank

ABM Ophthalmology team help patients in The Gambia

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:39:34 GMT

Members of the Ophthalmology Department at Singleton Hospital recently gathered to share their experiences of providing education and support to their counterparts in The Gambia.

ABM Public Board Meeting - 26th January

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:36:03 GMT

Members of the public are very welcome to attend the Health Board's public meeting on Thursday 26th January.

Health Minister enjoys miles of smiles at Ninian Park Primary

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:24:48 GMT

The Minister for Health and Social Services Lesley Griffiths has seen how well a Welsh Government programme tackling tooth decay is working amongst primary school children.

Organ donation consultation closing soon - last chance to have your say

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 09:10:58 GMT

The Minister for Health and Social Services, Lesley Griffiths, is urging the Welsh public to make their mark before the organ donation consultation closes.

Singleton Hospital neonatal unit is full

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:52:28 GMT

Singleton Hospital’s neonatal unit has been temporarily closed to new admissions because demand over the last few days has been very high, and the unit is full.

Go-ahead for £15.8m Cardiff Royal Infirmary revamp

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:11:48 GMT

Cardiff’s health services received a boost in the form of £15.8million from the Welsh Government. The funding will allow work to start on the provision of a range of services at Cardiff Royal Infirmary (CRI).

Minister keeps an eye on world-first Optometry Education Centre

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:07:15 GMT

The Minister for Health and Social Services, Lesley Griffiths, has visited the first postgraduate education centre for optometry in the world – based in Cardiff.

Further public meetings on organ donation plans announced

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:02:10 GMT

On average, one person a week in Wales dies while waiting for a suitable donor and around 300 people are currently waiting for an organ transplant.

ABMU Equality - we want your views

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 17:01:59 GMT

Our Health Board is committed to ensuring that equality is at the heart of all we do.

Simon helps save stranded horse

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:19:05 GMT

A member of ABMU’s staff, who is a part time volunteer with the RNLI, helped in a dramatic rescue at the weekend to save a pony which had tumbled 50ft over sheer cliffs at Cardigan and into the sea.

You can help stop the spread of Norovirus

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:13:26 GMT

The season of Norovirus – the Winter Vomiting Disease is now with us and present within your local community and hospitals. ABM Health Board is urging all members of the public to remember they can help stop the virus spreading.

Road Closure at Morriston Hospital

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:20:05 GMT

As of Monday 16^th January there will be a new road layout in place at Morriston Hospital.

Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) Breast Implants

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 10:46:57 GMT

I wish to update Assembly Members on the action the Welsh Government is taking regarding the safety concerns identified in Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) breast implants.

ABM maxillofacial staff to teach international colleagues

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 09:19:06 GMT

Experts from ABM’s Maxillofacial Department at Morriston Hospital will host the international Digital Design in Facial Prosthetics Workshop when it is held in the UK for the first time later this year.

Notice regarding PIP breast implants:

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:07:13 GMT

We can assure patients that ABMU (including our Bridgend clinic) has never used PIP implants in any patients.

£82m to train non-medical healthcare professionals

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 10:01:44 GMT

Almost 2,000 non-medical healthcare students, including nurses, midwives, paramedics and pharmacists will be funded by the Welsh Government in 2012-13, Health Minister Lesley Griffiths has announced.

Minister announces over £2.9m in grant funding for voluntary sector organisations

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:55:50 GMT

The Minister for Health and Social Services, Lesley Griffiths, has announced over £2.9m in funding for national voluntary organisations

Evidence of Major Improvements in Patient Care Across Wales

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:38:37 GMT

Hourly ward rounds by nurses to check on patients’ comfort and personal needs are among the many improvements to patient care introduced as part of the Welsh Government’s drive to improve the patient experience in Wales.

Wales offers further support to women with PIP implants

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:53:35 GMT

All women in Wales who are assessed clinically as needing Poly Implant Prosthese (PIP) breast implants removed will be offered replacement implants on the NHS, regardless of whether they received the initial implant privately or from the NHS.

Minister for Health and Social Services launches Sensory Loss Report

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:47:10 GMT

The Minister for Health and Social Services, Lesley Griffiths, has launched a report that will improve the lives of people with sensory loss.

Small fire in Princess of Wales Hospital

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 11:40:01 GMT

A fire in a fan heater above the main entrance of the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend resulted in 51 patients in two wards on the floor above being moved to nearby wards as a precaution.

Children's Christmas party a huge success

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 09:39:48 GMT

Children who have been cared for at the Cleft Lip and Palate Unit, Morriston Hospital, were recently treated to a special Christmas party.

ABM celebrates nurses' transformation of care

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 15:46:03 GMT

Staff from ABM’s Nursing Directorate have gathered together to celebrate their achievements in improving patient care and the ward environment.

ABM hospitals are very busy after holidays

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:23:48 GMT

In the wake of Christmas and New Year holidays, ABM’s hospitals are now extremely busy, and patients who have urgent or emergency needs for treatment are being asked to ensure they use the right service.

Chair of ABMU is awarded an OBE

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 09:42:20 GMT

Congratulations to Win Griffiths, Chairman of Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board, who was awarded an OBE in the Queen's New Years Honours for services to the NHS in Wales.

£5.5m for 'personalised' mental health services

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 09:34:24 GMT

New funding worth £5.5m to improve mental health services in Wales was announced today (Wednesday 28 December) by Health Minister Lesley Griffiths.

Changes to improve provision of child contact services in Wales

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 09:28:00 GMT

The way that CAFCASS Cymru funds child contact services in Wales is set to change in an effort to improve consistency of provision across the country.

New Year, new regulations to meet carers' needs

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 09:17:50 GMT

New regulations aimed at meeting some of the needs of unpaid carers come into force on 1 January 2012.

A big thank you from the children's wards

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 09:51:11 GMT

Staff, children and their families at Morriston Hospital would like to say a huge thank to all those who have brought festive cheer and presents to the wards this Christmas.

Caswell Clinic announced as Wales' first Practice Innovation Centre

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 12:14:01 GMT

Caswell Clinic has been announced as Wales’ first Practice Innovation Unit, as part of a new initiative by Swansea University.

Appointments to Local Health Boards (LHBs) and NHS Trusts

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 16:20:13 GMT

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths today (22/12/2011) announced the following appointments of independent members to Local Health Boards and NHS Trusts in Wales:

· Marian Wyn Jones to Betsi Cadwaladr University LHB
· Liz Roberts to Betsi

Wales's top doctor to retire

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 10:56:41 GMT

Dr Tony Jewell today announced he will retire next summer after six years as Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for Wales.

Eye Clinic helps heroes at Christmas time

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 09:48:45 GMT

Staff from the Eye Clinic at the Princess of Wales Hospital have raised £581 to support The Royal British Legion in its 90^th anniversary year.

Generous gift for Gower Ward

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 09:37:32 GMT

A patient has donated £100 of her own money to Gower Ward at Morriston Hospital as a token of her appreciation for the care she has been receiving.

Christmas message to NHS staff from Health Minister

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 14:33:00 GMT

When I was appointed Health Minister in May, I sent a message to NHS staff saying how delighted I was to get the job.

West Wales' first Cardiac 3D scanner is a Christmas cracker

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 09:30:09 GMT

The first 3D scanner in West Wales has arrived in the Cardiac Centre at Morriston Hospital, with help from a 15 year old boy from Swansea.

Being homeless at Christmas

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 12:05:36 GMT

A message from Janet Keauffling, ABM’s Nurse for Homeless and Vulnerable Adults:

Plans to prevent and test Cancer in Wales published

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:54:16 GMT

An ambitious vision of what cancer care should look like to help achieve rates comparable with the lowest in Europe have been set out in a new cancer plan published by the Welsh Government.

Sir Richard Branson supports Welsh Government organ donation plans

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:48:53 GMT

Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson has congratulated Health Minister Lesley Griffiths for Welsh Government plans to introduce a soft opt-out system of organ donation.

Genie-us: panto fun for children's ward

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 09:40:41 GMT

The Children’s Ward at the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend took delivery of a very special magical lamp last week.

Don't forget to stock up on medicines for Christmas and New Year

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 11:24:24 GMT

If you are taking any medications, please make sure you have enough to see you through Christmas and into the New Year. Please don’t leave it to chance – make sure you get your prescription dispensed in good time for the Bank Holidays.

Friends' fete raises £21k for local hospital

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 09:21:17 GMT

Earlier this year, Port Talbot League of Friends held their annual fete. Little did they know that it would be their best ever fundraising fete.

Violence and aggression against NHS staff will not be tolerated

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 15:08:18 GMT

The Minister for Health and Social Services, Lesley Griffiths is sending out a strong message to Christmas revellers – violence and aggression against NHS staff will not be tolerated.

Keep safe on your night out

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 10:38:21 GMT

Safer Swansea partners are urging city centre revellers to take more responsibility for their well-being during one of the busiest party weekends of the year.

Breast care staff back on solid ground

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 15:41:29 GMT

Staff based at Singleton Hospital’s Breast Care Unit recently reached new heights when they climbed Mount Kilimanjaro.

First mandatory Food Hygiene Rating Scheme in the UK to be introduced in Wales

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:42:05 GMT

Food businesses such as restaurants, takeaways and supermarkets will be required by law to display food hygiene ratings at their premises under new plans outlined today by the Welsh Government.

Flying Start evaluation report published

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:14:42 GMT

The Deputy Minister for Children Gwenda Thomas has responded to the publication of the first survey report into the Flying Start programme saying that the report will provide useful evidence as the programme expands and develops.

ABM hat trick at Welsh Government awards

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 10:47:09 GMT

Three members of ABM’s staff are celebrating their success at the recent Welsh Government’s Recognising Achievement awards.

Deputy Minister announces over £9m in grant funding for voluntary sector organisations

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:27:47 GMT

Over £9m in funding over the next three years for voluntary organisations has been announced by the Deputy Minister for Children and Social Services Gwenda Thomas.

Art on Dialysis calendar 2012

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:24:45 GMT

Kidney dialysis patients at Morriston Hospital have tapped into their creative side and found a new way to while away the long hours spent each week having life-saving dialysis treatment.

Singleton Hospital Neonatal Unit now fully reopened

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:43:06 GMT

Statement by Dr Bruce Ferguson, Medical Director, ABMU health Board: The Neonatal Unit at Singleton Hospital has now fully reopened following the latest tests results which have shown no evidence of further cross infection of ESBL E.coli.

£750,000 investment in ABMU's restorative dentistry service

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:53:01 GMT

A £750,000 investment has been announced for Restorative Dentistry services in ABM University Health Board.

Photos give patient's view point of NHS Wales

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 10:17:50 GMT

NHS staff across Wales took part in an international photo campaign called ‘One day in the life of a patient’ recently.

Sweet pickings at Swans game

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 15:13:56 GMT

A children’s diabetes support group collected over £2000 at the recent Swansea City v Manchester United football game.

Step forward for major Swansea medical research centre

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 11:20:01 GMT

A state-of-the-art Swansea centre doing pioneering medical research took a major step-forward with the official opening of new facilities by the First Minister Carwyn Jones (pictured).

Tanzania hospital furnished with ABM donations

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:00:36 GMT

ABM’s Mental Health Directorate has boosted the work of a children’s charity working in Southern Tanzania by donating unwanted furniture for its hospital project.

A&E Nurse to provide gold medal treatment at Olympics

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 09:17:32 GMT

A member of Morriston Hospital’s A&E staff will be putting her medical skills to the test at next year’s Olympics.

Maggie's South West Wales to open on 9th December

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 10:14:16 GMT

The official opening heralds a new era of cancer care and support for people affected by cancer across the South Wales region, bringing hope and solace to thousands.

Carers' Rights Day is an opportunity to celebrate, says Deputy Minister

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 11:04:34 GMT

The Deputy Minister for Children and Social Services, Gwenda Thomas, has marked Carers’ Rights Day with a message to carers across Wales.

Health Minister launches nursing version of quality improvement guide

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:14:12 GMT

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths launched a special ‘nursing edition’ of ‘The 1000 Lives Plus Quality Improvement Guide’ on Tuesday, 29 November. The new guide has been published with the support of the Royal College of Nursing, Wales (RCN Wales) and will enable all nursing staff to introduce improvements in the care they provide.

Changes to National Partnership Forum for Older People

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 10:27:38 GMT

Gwenda Thomas, the Deputy Minister for Children and Social Services, has announced the new structure for the National Partnership Forum for Older People in Wales (NPF).

ABM's terrific 11 pick up certificates

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:14:44 GMT

Eleven ABM staff members have been presented with certificates of achievement after completing the 2011 Royal College of Nursing Clinical Leadership Programme.

ABM launches nebuliser amnesty

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:04:00 GMT

Respiratory Nurses across ABM are appealing for the return of nebulisers which have been loaned to patients but are no longer needed.

Day of Industrial Action - Notice to Patients and Visitors

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 10:41:25 GMT

Due to industrial action taking place on Wednesday 30^th November, and to ensure the safety of patients in our care, the Health Board is running a reduced service.

ESBL E.coli update: 28.11.11

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 18:20:15 GMT

ABM University Health Board can today confirm that one of the two initial cases of suspected ESBL E.coli cross infection has now been ruled out.

Memorial Carol Service for the bereaved

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 14:09:14 GMT

Christmas can be a happy time for many families, but for some it is a particularly difficult time if they mourn the loss of loved ones.

ESBL E. Coli update - 25.11.11

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:20:06 GMT

A third case of ESBL E. coli cross infection is unfortunately suspected at the maternity/neonatal unit at Singleton Hospital. This latest case involves another baby who is carrying the bacteria without any signs of infection.

Staff and students invited to capture patient viewpoint on camera

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 16:43:53 GMT

1000 Lives Plus is asking health professionals and other frontline staff in NHS Wales, healthcare students and academics to take part in a worldwide photo campaign to promote empathy, compassion and patient and family-centred care.

Wales Centre for Practice Innovation launched

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 14:23:49 GMT

Swansea University’s College of Human and Health Sciences held its first two-day practice innovation conference in nursing, allied health and social care this week (November 24-25), to officially launch the Wales Centre for Practice Innovation (WCPI).

Independent review of the management of asbestos at Bronglais Hospital commissioned

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 13:59:58 GMT

The Chief Executive of NHS Wales, David Sissling, has commissioned an independent review of the management of asbestos at Bronglais Hospital to identify the key lessons to be learned by NHS Wales.

Healthcare services on day of industrial action

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 12:06:53 GMT

As a result of the proposed strike action on Wednesday 30^th November, and to ensure the safety of patients, ABM Health Board will be running a reduced service on this day.

ESBL E.coli update, and corrections and clarifications to press reports

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 14:41:26 GMT

Our first priority is to support the families of the babies who have tragically died. We are in daily contact with these families and have shared all the information that is available to us. We will continue to do so.

ESBL E.coli update - 23.11.11

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 14:00:11 GMT

Update statements from Paul Roberts, Chief Executive of ABM University Health Board and Dr Bruce Ferguson, Medical Director of ABM University Health Board:

ESBL E. coli

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 15:01:19 GMT

Statement from Dr Bruce Ferguson, Medical Director, ABM University Health Board: ABM University Health Board, supported by Public Health Wales, is investigating two cases of ESBL E. coli cross infection in the maternity/neonatal unit at Singleton Hospital. (23.11.2011 - further clarification added)

Surgeons showcase skills at annual conference

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:47:31 GMT

Last week, members of ABM’s Bariatric Surgical Team showcased surgical procedures via video link to 400 delegates at the Association of Laparoscopic Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland’s Annual Scientific Meeting.

Antibiotic resistance in Wales is a growing problem - Health Minister

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 10:37:05 GMT

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths has visited a hospital pathology laboratory today in support of European Antibiotics Awareness Day, an annual event to promote the correct use of antibiotics.

First Responder team launched in Llandudno Junction

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 10:31:02 GMT

A Community First Responder team for Llandudno Junction was officially launched at the Welsh Government office in the town today.