Closing urgent care centres would have 'dire consequences', objectors say
Plan to close three urgent care centres sparks worry about pressure on GPs and emergency departments.
By BBC News
Plans to close three urgent primary care centres in north-west Wales have been criticised by campaigners and councillors, who warned of increased pressure on GP surgeries and emergency departments.
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is consulting on proposals to end urgent primary care centre services at Ysbyty Penrhos Stanley in Holyhead, Ysbyty Alltwen in Tremadog and Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor.
The centres provide same-day care for patients with urgent health problems. They were established in Gwynedd in 2022 and are staffed by advanced nurse practitioners, GPs and physiotherapists.
The health board said access to urgent care remained a priority, but cited financial pressures and ongoing recruitment difficulties affecting the services.
If approved, the centres would close by 31 March 2027. The proposal would not affect urgent primary care services at Mold Community Hospital or Wrexham Maelor Hospital.
Jeff Evans, a Holyhead county councillor, said closing the facility would have “dire consequences” for patients and the local community.
He warned that people could instead turn to GP practices and emergency departments that were already under pressure.
Finch-Saunders said the centres helped people who could not secure a GP appointment but needed immediate treatment. She warned that closing them could increase waiting times and lead to delays in care.
Betsi Cadwaladr is seeking feedback as part of its consultation on the proposed closures.