A digital step forward for patient care at Hywel Dda
15 October 2026
Hywel Dda University Health Board has successfully introduced a new electronic patient observation system (e-Obs) across inpatient wards at Glangwili Hospital. This marks an important step forward in the use of digital technology to support patient care.
Work to introduce the system across Withybush Hospital and a number of community sites is also nearing completion.
The new system, from supplier Alcidion, allows healthcare staff to record patients' vital signs electronically, helping teams quickly identify when a patient may need additional care or support.
By replacing paper-based observations, e-Obs improves the accuracy of information, reduces administration time and gives staff more time to focus on caring for patients.
The rollout has been made possible thanks to the dedication and collaboration of ward teams, clinicians and support staff across the Health Board.
Early feedback from staff has been very positive, with colleagues highlighting how the system supports safer, more efficient care and improves access to patient information.
Anna Harries, Chief Nursing Information Officer for Hywel Dda said: I am incredibly proud of the eObs team and the outstanding success they have achieved through the implementation at Glangwili and Llandovery hospitals. Their organisation, commitment, resilience and professionalism have been exemplary throughout every stage of the programme.
“With a clear focus on patient safety and supporting our staff throughout, they have ensured a smooth and patient-centred transition to this significant change in practice.
"This achievement is remarkable because it has been delivered entirely through the expertise and dedication of Hywel Dda staff, without relying on an external training model. The team has inspired confidence and enthusiasm throughout the organisation, demonstrating strong internal capability and our shared commitment to improving patient care through digital innovation.”
Dr Anthony Smith, Chief Clinical Information Officer (CCIO), Hywel Dda UHB said: “I’m delighted that the electronic observations system has now been successfully deployed across the adult inpatient wards at Glangwili. This is a significant achievement and reflects the hard work and commitment of the project team, alongside the support of clinical staff in adopting a new way of working. The system is already improving patient safety through better visibility of patient status, stronger clinical oversight and earlier recognition of deterioration.
“We are also proud to be the first health board in Wales to implement electronic observations. This marks an important step in our digital transformation journey and demonstrates how technology can support safer, more responsive care. I would also like to thank the Board for its vision and support in helping make this project a success.”
Huw Thomas, Director of Finance (and executive lead for digital services) at Hywel Dda said: "This is an exciting development for our patients and staff. Digital tools like e-Obs help us deliver safer, more responsive care while supporting our teams to spend more time where it matters most, with patients."
Plans are underway to rollout the e-Obs system across the Health Board’s other hospital sites throughout 2026-27 as a part of the national programme with DHCW – an integral piece of the digital transformation taking place across Wales to improve patient care and treatment.