Commenting on decisions made today by Hywel Dda Health Board regarding new health proposals for Mid Wales, Montgomeryshire Assembly Member, Russell George, said:
"This announcement today about the future of key health services for Mid Wales patients provided by Hywel Dda, is certainly a lot better than we feared some 12 months ago.
"At that point, the future of Bronglais and many of the acute clinical services provided there were in serious doubt. Many residents in Mid Wales were rightly concerned about possible changes to health services at the hospital but it does seem today that its future is more secure.
"Bronglais Hospital is and continues to be, a vital NHS facility that is of enormous importance to the residents of Mid Wales, particularly to my constituents who live in the west side of Montgomeryshire.
"I am pleased therefore that the Board, having listened to local public concerns, has recognised the strategic significance of the hospital and will be ensuring that a 24/7 Accident and Emergency service remains at the hospital.
"There are still question marks over some surgical and mental health services delivered from the hospital and I will need to look at those particular decisions in more detail.
"Of particular local concern was the recruitment of a colorectal consultant to ensure that colorectal and abdominal surgery would remain at the hospital.
"Having recently spoken to the Chair of the Board, Chris Martin, he assured me that the Board was committed to the recruitment and retention of key medical staff at the hospital and this was a major priority for them in the coming months ahead."