Preseli Pembrokeshire politicians Stephen Crabb MP and Paul Davies AM last week met with the interim Chief Executive of Hywel Dda Health Board, Karen Howell, to raise concerns about the future of services at Withybush.
Stephen and Paul urged the Health Board to be transparent in their future plans, following community concerns about the future of Paediatric and Cancer services.
They were also keen to find out what steps are being taken to address staff shortages and stressed the need for the new Chief Executive, Steve Moore, to regain the trust of Pembrokeshire people when he takes up his role in the New Year.
Commenting, Stephen Crabb MP said:
"2014 has been a very challenging year for Withybush and health services in Pembrokeshire following the refusal of the Welsh Health Minister to back down on his downgrading plans. Having already seen the removal of the Special Care Baby Unit, and the cutting of Paediatrics, there is now uncertainty over the future of cancer services."
"The welcome news last week that the Health Board have committed to the refurbishment of Ward 10, and a new Chemotherapy Day Unit, still does not address the underlying staff shortage problems at the hospital – Withybush does not have an Oncology or Palliative Care consultant."
"Unfortunately the meeting last Friday left me with more questions than answers. I made it clear that when the new Chief Executive takes up his role in the New Year, he faces an uphill task in reassuring Pembrokeshire people about the delivery of cancer services."
Local Assembly Member, Paul Davies said,
"Last week's meeting was a good opportunity to raise some very real concerns over paediatrics provision in Pembrokeshire. The downgrading of full time paediatric services at Withybush hospital to a 12 hour model has rightly worried families across Pembrokeshire."
"Unfortunately, following this meeting I still remain unconvinced that these changes will result in safe and sustainable services."
"Removing services from Withybush Hospital remains a reckless and irresponsible way forward – and I hope the new Chief Executive will seriously examine this issue, when he takes post in the New Year."