Eight-week public engagement launched over future of Meddygfa’r Sarn as patients face potential transfer to neighbouring practices
THE Health Board has agreed to delay any final decision on the future of GP services at Meddygfa’r Sarn in Pontyates and begin a public engagement process to gather views from patients and the local community.
At a board meeting on January 29, 2026, members discussed a recommendation to close the Pontyates surgery and transfer patients to alternative GP practices closer to their homes.
Instead of taking an immediate decision, the Board approved an eight-week engagement period from February 9 to April 6, with a final decision due at its meeting on May 28.
During the consultation, the health board will hold public drop-in events and invite patients to complete a survey, available online and in paper form. All registered patients will receive written details on how to take part.
background to the proposals
Meddygfa’r Sarn has been managed by the health board since 2017 and currently serves around 4,350 patients. The practice has faced ongoing staffing difficulties and currently has no permanently employed GPs, while the building offers limited facilities.
A Vacant Practice Panel set up in October 2025 reviewed long-term options for GP services in the area and concluded that managed dispersal was the most sustainable solution.
Under the proposal, patients would be transferred to nearby practices including Coalbrook Surgery (Pontyberem), Meddygfa Minafon (Kidwelly) and some practices in Llanelli.
health board response
Andrew Carruthers, Chief Operating Officer at Hywel Dda University Health Board, said the engagement process was vital before any final decision is made.
“We recognise that this recommendation may mean significant change for patients and communities, which is why it is essential that we take the time to listen.”
He confirmed that no changes will take place during the consultation and that Meddygfa’r Sarn will remain open, with services continuing as normal.
Further details on engagement events and how to share views will be released in the coming days.
