Delyth and others like her help Powys Teaching Health Board (PTHB) explain its future service model proposals to sceptical Powys residents.

In the autumn, it is expected that the health board will consult on potential service changes which could see it move away from a hospital-focused model to one which sees people cared for in their homes.

At a PTHB board meeting on Wednesday, July 29, members were given a presentation updating them on the latest work on Better Together, as well as the framework and timeline for consulting with Powys residents on the proposals.

Earlier this month, it was revealed that potentially more than 140 beds in Powys community hospitals could be lost as PTHB looks to expand community-based urgent care to “improve access and reduce hospital reliance”.

The papers show what this move could mean for “Delyth”, a 75-year-old who lives independently on a family farm with Welsh as her first language.

The case study explained that she has vascular dementia and experiences delirium during a UTI (urinary tract infection), raising both physical and mental health support needs.

Executive director of primary, community care and mental health Elaine Lorton said: “Behind all the modelling are real people like Delyth.

“Today, Delyth’s pathway risks being fragmented, physical and cognitive decline may be recognised late, and an acute episode may be managed outside of Powys.

“Her family may carry the coordination burden, and inpatient care may be considered separately from wider support at home and in the community.

“The future model is designed to feel different.”

She explained that instead of “multiple services and multiple plans, Delyth would have one coordinated team around her”.

Ms Lorton continued: “Bringing together physical health, mental health, independence and wellbeing needs into a single pathway.

“This means more support to stay safe at home, earlier intervention when her needs change, integrated monitoring and step-up and specialist inpatient care when that’s required.”

She stressed that this will bring “better continuity and less fragmentation”.

Ms Lorton added: “Better Together is not just about changing services; it’s about changing the experience of care for people and families, to being supported through one person, one plan and one pathway.”

Independent member Simon Wright said: “I was really pleased to see Delyth’s story in the presentation.”

He asked whether more of those “persona stories” would be developed for the consultation.

“They do help to explain how things will improve for individuals, I’m keen to see more of that as far as possible,” said Mr Wright.

Deputy director of communications and engagement Adrian Osborne answered: “On the personas, it’s a simple yes.

“We’re working on a range of case studies that help bring to life the potential impact and benefits – but also the downside of the options that are under consideration.”

A decision on consulting on options is set to go before the PTHB board in September, with a final decision set for spring next year.

A petition against the removal of hospital beds has already received more than 3,500 signatures.