Joyce Watson MS has urged Powys residents to have their say on proposed changes from Powys Teaching Health Board (PHTB) - including plans to cut Minor Injury Units (MIU) opening hours.

PTHB last week announced that the MIU at Brecon War Memorial Hospital will close overnight from September. Llandrindod Wells War Memorial Hospital MIU will also see a reduction of its opening hours.

The change is needed due to financial and staffing issues that are affecting PTHB.

The health board said the changes are temporary, and will take place from September 2024 for a period of six months.

PTHB also announced four hospitals will take on a more specialised focus to help ensure the best quality and outcomes for patients.

Joyce Watson, Labour MS for Mid and West Wales, said: “These changes would have serious impacts on people across Mid Wales, particularly those without access to their own transport.

“I am disappointed that this consultation is running across August, when many people are away or busy with childcare. I am also unclear on how long these ‘temporary’ measures would last.

“I am seeking further details of the proposed changes, and Cllr Matthew Dorrance is updating me on his meetings with the CEO and other senior officers.”

“I would urge all affected to give their views before August 25 2024 on https://www.haveyoursaypowys.wales/temporary.”

Last week, both James Evans MS for Brecon and Radnorshire, and Deputy Leader of Powys County Council Cllr Matthew Dorrance spoke out against the proposed changes to the MIU opening times.