Powys MPs say they “firmly oppose” the planned changes to hospitals proposed by Powys Teaching Health Board.
Steve Witherden, Labour MP for Montgomeryshire, and David Chadwick, Lib Dem MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, have both criticised the health board’s proposed plans and the consultation process under which they were made.
Proposals by the health board would see the opening times at Minor Injury Units in Llandrindod Wells and Brecon cut and the downgrading of services available in Bronllys and Llanidloes hospitals, which would be designated as 'Ready to Go Home' units.
Mr Witherden said: “I am firmly opposed to any downgrading of Llanidloes Hospital and shall be taking measures to oppose this.
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"I have also been extremely disappointed by the consultation process so far, not all of the relevant information has been shared with the public with the appearance that some stakeholders have been privy to more information than others."
The health board stated in its plans that the temporary changes would help people get home from hospital quicker but has been met with criticism from politicians in the area as well as multiple medical practices.
Dyfi Valley Health, near Machynlleth, Arwystli Medical Practices in Llanidloes and Caersws and Llanfair Caereinion Medical Practice have spoken out against the proposed changes.
Mr Chadwick has also voiced opposition to the plans, saying: “These proposals from the Health Board have not been subjected to the rigorous consultation process they require.
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Numerous residents, but crucially also local healthcare professionals have raised their objections and concerns to the plans that have been set out.
We are calling on the Health Board to put a halt to these plans, go back to the drawing board and engage in proper and meaningful consultation with the public about the provision of their healthcare services.
Labour promised better healthcare outcomes if they came to power, yet residents across Mid Wales are once again being faced with cuts to their public services, with the possibility of more on the horizon.”
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