Shadow Health Minister calls for end to neuro-surgery uncertainty

Shadow Health Minister Andrew RT Davies has called on the Assembly Government to end uncertainty over the provision of complex neurosurgery in south Wales.

The demand follows a decision to transfer emergency neurosurgery at Swansea’s Morriston Hospital to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff due to staffing problems earlier this year.

Shadow Health Minister Andrew RT Davies

South Wales Central AM Mr Davies said: “Perhaps the Labour leadership contest has taken her eye off the ball, but the sooner the Health Minister resolves this issue the better.

“The suspension of services in Swansea due to staffing issues was supposed to be a temporary measure. But we are now mid-way through October and there are appears to be no resolution.

“The pressures on the service are growing and there is now a serious danger of neurosurgery services collapsing in South Wales unless action is taken – as was demonstrated by surgeons from UHW during a meeting in the Assembly last week.

“It is vital we have a fully functioning service to ensure patient care is not put at risk.”