Mental health ward at risk

A HOSPITAL ward dedicated to caring for elderly people with mental health problems could soon shut as part of a drive to develop more community-based services, it has been announced.

Cwm Taf University Health Board confirmed that one of four older people’s mental health wards at Ysbyty George Thomas in Treorchy, Rhondda, could close as part of their proposals.

It forms part of the health board’s threeyear plan, which began in 2014, to improve mental health services by moving more patients from hospital settings and into communities.

John Palmer, director of primary, community and mental health at Cwm Taf University Health Board, said: “We have already successfully moved some ward-based services for low-risk mental health disorders and have put in place successful community treatment and support services for patients with anxiety disorders and depression.

“Building on this success, we are currently engaging on the proposal to replace one of our four older people’s mental health wards at Ysbyty George Thomas with an improved community service.

“This will not affect the beds available for older people with long-term inpatient needs such as patients with severe dementia or Alzheimer’s.

“The development of stronger communitybased services for early intervention with older people suffering from anxiety and depression will improve care, reduce the need for hospital admission and will mirror services already in place for younger adults.

“This will deliver a better service based on need rather than the age of the patient.”