Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is reviewing proposals to end urgent primary care centre services at three hospitals by 31 March 2027.
The centres affected are:
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Ysbyty Penrhos Stanley, Holyhead
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Ysbyty Alltwen, Tremadog
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Ysbyty Gwynedd, Bangor
The centres were established in 2022 with Welsh Government funding to provide same-day treatment for patients referred by GPs or emergency departments. They employ clinicians including GPs, advanced nurse practitioners and physiotherapists.
The health board cites financial pressures and recruitment difficulties. Politicians and councillors have warned that closures could increase pressure on GP surgeries and hospital emergency departments.
Why it matters: These services were specifically designed to reduce demand on other parts of the NHS. Removing them could affect access to treatment in communities where travelling to alternative services can be difficult.
Status: Proposed closures, not a final decision. The board is reviewing provision and engaging with staff. Its published service directory still lists all three centres. The scale of potential savings, patient numbers affected and alternative arrangements have not been established publicly.
