A new X-Ray unit will open on Friday

Montgomeryshire County Infirmary in Newtown will reopen its X-ray unit this Friday following the installation of new digital equipment.

The upgrade is part of a £1.7 million Welsh Government-funded programme to modernise X-ray units across community hospitals in the region. The investment aims to enhance diagnostic capabilities while improving patient care.

During the temporary closure, patients requiring X-ray services have been redirected to other community hospitals within the health board's network.

The new state-of-the-art digital equipment provides faster and clearer images compared to previous technology. Health officials said the upgraded machinery delivers quicker results and more accurate diagnoses, which will help reduce waiting times and improve access to treatment.

An additional benefit of the new technology is the reduced radiation dosage required for imaging, decreasing patient exposure during procedures.

Welshpool, Llandrindod Wells and Ystradgynlais hospitals have already reopened their X-ray departments with the new equipment, with Brecon's unit expected to reopen in the coming weeks. The entire programme of upgrades is scheduled for completion this spring.

Claire Madsen, Executive Director for Allied Health Professionals, Health Sciences at Powys Teaching Health Board, said: "Again, I'd like to thank people for their patience while we install this new equipment. We are already seeing a much improved service in the units that have re-opened and I am sure that this will be replicated in Newtown and Brecon too."

She added: "I'd also like to remind everyone that when X-ray departments are closed, that other radiology services in these hospitals - such as ultrasound - are unaffected and will continue to be available. I should also mention that 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."