Injuries unit closed until 2022
A HOSPITAL minor injuries unit is to remain closed until early 2022 due to staffing issues, it has been revealed.
Six weeks ago – on September 7 – Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board confirmed that Ysbyty Cwm Cynon (YCC) in Mountain Ash would temporarily shut, with the service being moved to Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil.
But after conducing a “thorough review” of staffing at the unit, the health board has now said it requires more suitably trained workers in order to provide “a sustainable service that isn’t subject to further disruption”.
A spokesperson said: “This training is now under way and as this process will take some time to be completed to the highest standards, we anticipate that the minor injuries unit at YCC will now reopen in early 2022.”
The health board added that the option of temporary staffing arrangements to enhance the unit was also investigated.
“Unfortunately, we could not be assured that this would be consistently available through the coming months, which would result in the unit having to close and re-open at very short notice,” the spokesperson said.
“In order to offer a consistent service and give our patients certainty we will continue to deliver the minor injuries service at PCH where its location, alongside the emergency department, will offer greater resilience.”
The spokesperson added: “We appreciate that this delayed reopening of the unit at YCC will be disappointing news for our communities, however we are absolutely committed to reopening the MIU as soon as the staffing issues are resolved.
“We also want to reassure our communities that there are no plans to close the minor injuries unit at Ysbyty Cwm Cynon in the long-term and this is very much a temporary closure.”
The closure comes at a time when the health board’s A&E and minor injuries services are seeing a huge demand.
“To help us help you, please consider the best place to get treatment if it’s not urgent,” the spokesperson added.
“Your pharmacist can help with many common problems, and you can also call 111 or visit the online symptom checker at 111.wales.nhs. uk. We apologise for any inconvenience this temporary closure may cause and would like to thank you for your patience and co-operation during this time as we work to further improve your local MIU service at YCC.”