Health bosses are considering plans to close a ward for frail elderly patients in Cardiff, prompting worries among relatives of both staff and patients about future care arrangements and staff displacement.
Lansdowne Ward at St David's Hospital in Canton provides inpatient rehabilitation and care for frail older patients, typically transferred from acute sites such as the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff or Llandough Hospital in Penarth.
Staff and relatives raise concerns
Relatives of those on the ward say they are concerned about where patients will be cared for, when they will be moved, and what will happen to staff. One relative of a nurse working on the ward said: "Staff, including my mother, were informed that their ward would be closing down."
The relative added: "This would displace around 30 nurses as well as leave Cardiff and Vale with one less care of the elderly ward going into winter."
Health board response
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board confirmed it is looking at proposals to close the ward, which it said is being considered to benefit patients. A spokesperson said they were unable to provide details until after the consultation ends on November 18.
Rachel Lee, clinical board director for primary, community and intermediate care, said: "Cardiff and Vale University Health Board is looking at how we can better support patients to receive the right care in the right place, while improving patient flow and reducing avoidable delays in hospital."
Ms Lee added: "As part of this work we are currently consulting with staff on a proposal to close the Lansdowne Ward at St David's Hospital. No final decision has been made and the consultation runs until November 18. Feedback from colleagues will be carefully considered before any next steps are agreed."
Next steps
Ms Lee said the health board recognises the proposal may cause concern for patients, families and colleagues, and that staff are being supported throughout the consultation with opportunities to share their views.
She said: "If the proposal goes ahead, we will keep patients and their families informed and work with them to agree appropriate discharge or onward care arrangements before any changes take place."
