Written question WQ89125

Aneurin Bevan University Health Board is responsible for the planning and delivery of healthcare services on behalf of its local population, including services provided at Nevill Hall Hospital.

I understand that following a recent evaluation of minor injury unit (MIU) services within the health board area, an imbalance between opening hours and patient demand across the units was highlighted.

In recognition of the low overnight patient demand at some sites – on average one patient uses the MIU between 1am and 7am at Nevill Hall Hospital – the health board is proposing changes to ensure valuable staff resources are used as effectively as possible, and clinical teams maintain their skills.

The health board commenced a formal public engagement process on 11 September, which will run until 1 December. I would encourage all interested parties to engage in that process. More information can be found at: Provision of Minor Injury Unit Services 8-week Engagement - Aneurin Bevan University Health Board (nhs.wales)

No decision will be made by the health board until after the formal public engagement process has concluded in December.

If the proposals are implemented, minor injury services would continue to be maintained at Nevill Hall Hospital for 18 hours a day, seven days a week between 7am and 1am, and at Ysbyty Aneurin Bevan in Ebbw Vale for 10 hours between 9am and 7pm Monday to Friday.

Minor injury services will be provided at the Royal Gwent Hospital in Newport on a 24-hour basis and the Grange University Hospital will continue to provide 24/7 emergency department services for more significant injuries or medical conditions.