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Mental health patients "incorrectly discharged' says MS


May 23, 2020 - 816 views

Clwyd West MS Darren Millar is calling for answers from Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board after 1,695 mental health patients were "incorrectly" discharged from hospitals in North Wales during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The patients were discharged and advised to seek new referrals once the coronavirus crisis eases, which is against Welsh Government guidance.

The Health Board originally indicated that the number of patients discharged was limited to Flintshire, however Mr. Millar has received clarification from Executive Director for Primary Care and Community Services at BCUHB, Dr Chris Stockport, that revised data identifies that 1,694 patients across North Wales have been affected.

Mr. Millar said: “Those people affected by the Health Board’s decision to unilaterally discharge some patients from Primary Mental Health Care Services deserve an apology.

“While I recognise the pressures that the coronavirus pandemic has placed on the NHS, I am extremely concerned that vulnerable people who were referred into mental health services have been treated in this way, especially at a time when the Board’s mental health services are subject to special measures by the Welsh Government.

“I have written to the Board to seek an explanation as to what happened and for assurances that all patients will be reregistered by local primary care mental health teams in order to access the support that they need.”

Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board has been approached for comment but no response had been received at the time this story was published. Bayside will update this story when we have more information.