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Health Board Approves Continuation of Temporary Service Changes

Update on 30 July 2025

Powys Teaching Health Board has today confirmed the continuation of temporary service changes introduced in December 2024, following a six-month evaluation.

At its meeting on 30 July 2025, the Board considered detailed evidence on the impact of the temporary changes to urgent care and inpatient services across Powys. This included feedback from patients, staff, and partners, as well as data on safety, clinical outcomes, and patient experience.

The Board has approved the recommendation to maintain the current service model on a further temporary basis.

This includes:

  • Minor Injuries Units in Brecon and Llandrindod Wells continuing to operate from 8am to 8pm.
  • Inpatient Units in Llanidloes and Bronllys continuing to focus on patients assessed as Ready To Go Home.
  • Inpatient Units in Newtown and Brecon continuing to focus on patients requiring more specialised rehabilitation.

Chair of the Health Board, Dr Carl Cooper, said:

“We would like to thank everyone who has shared their views and experiences with us. This has been a considered decision, grounded in evidence and guided by our commitment to safe, high-quality care.”

“The temporary changes were introduced to address significant challenges in the sustainability of local NHS services. Evidence shows that prolonged hospital stays—especially for older people—can lead to rapid physical decline. The temporary service model aims to support people to recover more effectively in the right setting.”

Executive Medical Director, Kate Wright added:

“Our priority is always to provide care that is safe, effective, and compassionate. The evaluation shows that these changes have helped improve patient outcomes and reduce delays in care. We will continue to monitor the impact closely, learning from the experience of patients and staff.”

 

Next Steps

Work has been taking place during the summer through the Health Board’s Better Together programme to shape the future of safe, high quality services for Powys. The Better Programme aims to make lasting decisions about the permanent future shape of health services in the county, with formal consultation expected later this year.

The temporary changes will remain in place over the coming months whilst the Better Together programme continues, with a  series of community engagement events expected across Powys from autumn 2025.

More information about the temporary service changes is available from pthb.nhs.wales/temporary-2025

For more information about Better Together is available from pthb.nhs.wales/bettertogether