Hywel Dda Health Charities has purchased heart monitors and blood pressure machines for use by cardiology patients in the Ammanford area thanks to donations from members of the public.

Ten heart rate and rhythm monitors are available for patients in Ammanford, Carmarthen and Llanelli to use in their own homes, so that assessments can be done remotely.

Readings are transferred to one of three specialist heart failure nurses, enabling the team to assess if further investigation is needed.

The purchase of 75 automated blood pressure machines for patients to use at home is also enabling virtual clinics to be held, allowing the nursing team to record vital observations to help prevent hospital admissions.

Helen Bowler, Heart Failure Specialist Nurse, said: “The heart monitors and blood pressure machines have transformed what we are able to do. They are a tremendous asset and we are very grateful for donations which have made the purchases possible.

“We have been looking at different ways of working to ensure the needs of our patients are met due to the current situation.”

Weighing scales and talking scales have also been purchased for use by the service.

Nicola Llewelyn, head of Hywel Dda Health Charities said: “Donations from our local communities are making a real difference to the lives of heart patients across our three counties.

“Thanks to the generosity of local people, we have been able to purchase heart monitors and blood pressure machines for use at home. We are grateful for the support.”

If you would like to make a donation, you can do so here: www.justgiving.com/hywelddahealthcharities