New X-ray equipment for Welshpool Hospital

Welshpool Hospital is to receive new digital X-ray equipment that provides quicker results and more accurate diagnoses, whilst also reducing waiting times and improving access to treatment.

The £1.7million investment in new digital X-ray equipment by Powys Teaching Health Board is being funded by Welsh Government, with the new equipment producing faster, clearer images than ever before, helping to improve diagnostics for the people of the Welshpool area.

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

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.

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

“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, these new X-ray machines use a lower dose of radiation than the existing machines, which in turn reduces the radiation exposure for patients.