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Gwaun Cae Gurwen GP surgery inspection finds urine sample in vaccine fridge
Overview
A Healthcare Inspectorate Wales (HIW) inspection of the Amman Tawe Partnership practice in Gwaun Cae Gurwen revealed that a urine sample was stored in an overstocked and disorganised vaccine fridge, posing a risk of cross-contamination. The report also highlighted expired emergency equipment, unsecured oxygen cylinders, a missing emergency pull cord in a disabled toilet, and a predominantly negative patient experience regarding appointment availability and care access.
Key points
- A urine sample was discovered inside an overstocked and disorganised vaccine fridge at the Amman Tawe Partnership practice.
- Inspectors found expired emergency equipment and medication, along with an unsecured oxygen cylinder.
- A disabled toilet was found without an emergency pull cord, though one was installed shortly after the inspection.
- A patient questionnaire revealed that 85% of respondents rated the service as poor, citing difficulties with appointment availability and access.
- Local politicians, including MP David Chadwick and MS Jane Dodds, described the findings as damning following years of local concerns.
- Health boards including Swansea Bay and Hywel Dda are working together to address the report's findings and implement improvements.