A £1.7 million investment in new digital X-ray equipment has been announced by Powys Teaching Health Board.

Funded by Welsh Government, the new equipment will produce faster, clearer images than ever before, helping to improve diagnostics for the people of Powys.

As well as providing quicker results and more accurate diagnoses, it will also help to reduce waiting times for X-rays which in turn will improve access to treatment.

The new equipment will be installed in two phases, with the first phase beginning on November 12 2024 at Ystradgynlais, Llandrindod Wells and Welshpool.

Claire Madsen, Executive Director for Allied Health Professionals, Health Sciences at Powys Teaching Health Board said: “We thank you for your patience while we carry out these upgrades.

“Replacing the X-ray equipment at each site will take approximately eight weeks. During this time we will need to close the X-ray departments in Ystradgynlais, Llandrindod Wells and Welshpool and offer you an appointment at another of our community hospitals.”

“Other radiology services in Ystradgynlais, Llandrindod Wells and Welshpool such as ultrasound will be unaffected during this time and will continue to be available.”

Once the first phase is completed, a second phase of X-ray equipment replacement will begin in early January.

“If you are referred for an X-ray by a GP or other healthcare professional whilst this work take place then our booking team will contact you to arrange an appointment in the nearest alternative location,” said Ms Madsen.

“If you have a minor injury then we continue to encourage you to phone first for clinical advice. Our clinical team will be able to provide advice over the phone to help you access the treatment you need.”

In addition to the improved quality and speed, the new X-ray machines use a lower dose of radiation than the existing machines, which in turn reduces the radiation exposure for patients.