Carmarthenshire community hospital re-opens

Hywel Dda University Health Board is delighted to announce the immediate re-opening of Llandovery Community Hospital, in Llandovery, Carmarthenshire, with patients being transferred to the hospital this week.

Hywel Dda UHB was forced to close the hospital just over a month ago due to COVID-19 related constraints on the workforce.

Since the closure, Hywel Dda UHB has worked hard to undertake significant remedial works at the hospital to improve the environment, including repairs and refurbishments to walls and flooring. The site also underwent a deep clean, which has allowed the hospital to be re-opened as a COVID-19 free facility (green site).

Jill Paterson, Director of Primary Care, Community and Long Term Care at Hywel Dda UHB, said: “The closure of Llandovery Community Hospital was always intended to be a temporary measure, so I am delighted to be able to announce its re-opening. It is an important and highly valued facility for the people in and around that area.

“While we have successfully completed a range of remedial works, there are some further essential works required, which is why the hospital has initially re-opened with eight beds, with a further three beds due to open in early February.

“The hospital previously had the capacity to accommodate 16 patients, but due to social distancing guidance, it will eventually operate at a reduced maximum capacity of 14 beds, but this will depend on further work being undertaken later this year.

“I would like to thank the community in and around Llandovery for its understanding and continued support. These remain very challenging times, but I want to assure the public that we are working hard to deliver safe and optimal care for all our patients.”