A Cemmaes Road health centre could close because of staffing issues - leaving patients having to travel to Machynlleth to see a GP.

Dyfi Valley Health, a partnership of GPs, took over the management of both the Glantwymyn and Machynlleth health centres in 2017, but issues with staff recruitment have led to the organisation only being able to operate a reduced service at the Glantwymyn centre in Cemmaes Road. And now Dyfi Valley Health has asked Powys Health Board for permission to close the Cemmaes Road practice to concentrate services at Machynlleth Health Centre.

Staff at Dyfi Valley Health said the decision had not been taken lightly, but that it was considered the only way to ensure services are protected.

Dr Jon Shaw said: “Our research shows that a larger proportion of our 7,000 patients are within reach of Machynlleth, and it has a better range of clinic rooms. Public transport is scant in this area, but Machynlleth town centre has a better range of buses and parking.

“We sincerely regret that some patients in outlying areas will now have an extra 10 minutes added to their journey. Rural health is facing unique and sometimes insurmountable problems. Doctors here are trying desperately hard to ensure that patient care is protected in the Dyfi Valley.”

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