The South East Pembrokeshire Community Health Network meeting at New Hedges Village Hall was well attended.

The chair, Mansel Thomas welcomed everyone and reminded the group that its aims were to provide the community with a way of achieving better communication with health bodies expressing its views on health matters and cooperating with the Hywel Dda Health Board in consultations over local health provision.

There is growing concern about the apparent rationing of eye operations. Examples of such problems were discussed. A speaker explaining ophthalmic provision in this area had been expected, but was unable to attend this meeting. The CHC reported that there is a shortage of consultants in this field in the Pembrokeshire area. Other parts of the Board's area do not seem to have the same problems.

Mr. Morrisey a manager from the Health Board, has promised to pass on the views expressed. The group has asked that a letter be sent to the chief executive of the HD Health Board, the AM, and MP expressing the group's views on ophthalmic provision.

The network has been in consultation with the Community Health Council over the handling of complaints and comments and it has been agreed that individuals should write to them, so that the CHC can collate and undertake any necessary action. The CHC can be contacted at Havens Head Business Park, Hakin, Milford Haven.

Representatives from the Tenby Cottage Hospital, senior nurse Yvonne Phillips and from the Tenby Cottage Ward, the matron, Mandy Parker, were in attendance and reported that both facilities were being well used and appreciated by patients.

The hospital now has an extra three groups using it, including a sleep apnoea clinic. Rooms at the Tenby Cottage Hospital are also available to voluntary health organisations to use free of charge. The question of the Minor Injuries Unit being expanded to include provision for minor ailments was discussed, as has previously been indicated by the Health Board. The network will continue to press for this provision.

Getting appointments at the doctors' surgeries is also a big concern. The Welsh Assembly Government has recently undertaken a national survey on appointments across Wales, including Tenby, and the CHC is checking on the survey.

The SEPCHN would like the local GPs to set-up Patient Participation Groups (PPG) within their services. The one in Haverfordwest is a success and most English GP practices have them.

The secretary, Clr. Mrs. Caroline Thomas has been asked to write to the LHB about the problem with appointments and the desire of patients to have continuity of care. A copy will be sent to the surgeries.

The meeting ended with Ashley Warlow giving a presentation on the important work the CHC does for the community. The CHC would like to see the SEPCHN replicated in other parts of Pembrokeshire.

The next meeting of the SEPCHN is planned for July 19 at the New Hedges Village Hall. If you have an interest in local health matters, please come along.