Why we are discussing changes to the healthcare service in Pembrokeshire?
Mary Hodgeon, acting chief executive of the Pembrokeshire and Derwen NHS Trust, explains the need for changes in the way NHS services are delivered in Pembrokeshire.
"I am concerned that people might not have the right facts about discussions that are taking place regarding Withybush Hospital. Current service changes are a temporary measure to achieve financial balance in 2005/06.
"In common with the NHS throughout Wales, we are looking at ways of changing how people receive their healthcare in Pembrokeshire. That is not the same as cutting services - far from it. So why do we need to change things?
"A couple of years ago there was a major review of healthcare services across Wales. The Wanless Report concluded that change was essential if the NHS was to provide the service that the people of Wales deserve. The NHS Confederation document, A Picture of Health, supported by the British Medical Association, The Royal College of Nursing, Community Health Councils and others, also concluded that services needed to be delivered differently. The recently published Designed for Life Ten Year Strategy also outlines the need for change in health and social care delivery in Wales.
"We are not downgrading Withybush to a cottage hospital; we are setting about improving the hospital's ability to deliver key services to the people of Pembrokeshire. We also need to develop and improve primary healthcare, build up clinical networking with specialist hospital centres and create better working relationships with social services.
"Later this month, the NHS in Mid and West Wales will publish a document which outlines the case for change. I would encourage you to read it and there will be opportunities for members of the public to share their views with members of the Health Community. We welcome well-informed debate on the future development of health and social care services within Pembrokeshire."