i'w ddarllen yn Gymraeg
FAQs
Why have you moved?
We have moved to our new facility Canolfan Iechyd Genomig Cymru (CIGC) / Wales Genomics Health Centre because the existing facilities are no longer fit for purpose . As the demand for the genomics services continues to increase, we want to be in a position where we can continue to provide the highest quality of care, in suitable facilities, for the growing number of our patients who require our services.
How does this benefit patients?
The new facility has been specifically designed with our patients in mind, and is equipped with the latest technologies and resources, with the aim of improving patient care now and in the future. The new clinic space at CIGC provides a location where patients can feel reassured that we can continue to meet their needs in a dedicated space, allowing for better continuity of care and improved peace of mind.
Will there always be two locations in Cardiff?
The AWMGS clinical service will be based at the CIGC and the patient facilities here have been designed with support from AWMGS patients and families to provide the best possible patient experience and outcome. Therefore, the existing dedicated genetics service facilities on the University Hospital of Wales’ site will eventually be closed as they as they no longer meet the requirements of our services.
Whilst we hope that the benefits of the CIGC site for patients will be very attractive, we also understand that access to the new site may be challenging for individuals. Therefore, we will continue to offer choice to patients and families who would prefer to access services close to the UHW site and are happy to discuss what we can do to support, by addressing the needs of individuals, on a case by case basis.
We will also continue to provide children’s services at UHW as we can offer specialist paediatric clinic facilities at this location
Site Accessibility/ Facilities
Where is the new site located?
The site is located at Cardiff Edge Business Park, Longwood Drive, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF14 7YU – this is near to Coryton roundabout which is on the A470 and junction 32 of the M4 motorway.
Is there parking? Do I have to pay?
Yes, there is plenty of dedicated parking for patients, visitors and staff at CIGC, including accessible parking spaces. You do not have to pay for parking.
Is there accessible parking?
Yes, there are a number of accessible parking spaces available, with clearly marked bays and an accessibility ramp to the building.
What are the public transport options?
Bus
The 132 Cardiff – Maerdy bus service runs regularly from Cardiff city centre to the Village Hotel.
The nearest bus stop with regular services is the Village Hotel, a 10 to 20-minute walk from CIGC. Alternatively, you can alight at Tongwynlais Primary School and access the site via the Taff Trail.
Train
The closest train stations are Radyr and Coryton.
Radyr Station is served by half-hourly services southbound from Rhondda and Merthyr Vale, and northbound from Barry and Cardiff. The station is approximately a 15-minute walk from CIGC.
Coryton Station is served by half-hourly services from Cardiff Central Station and Cardiff Queen Street Station. The station is approximately a 20-minute walk from CIGC.
How do I find the clinic?
The clinic is a short walk from the car park and there is an accessible route from the car park to the site.
On the below map, the area outlined in yellow indicates our parking area. The black dotted line shows the route to and from the access road to our car park through the main security gate. The red dotted line shows the walking route from our car park to the building.
A map will also be included in your appointment letter, should you be invited to attend the CIGC.
Does the site have disabled access?
Yes, there is disabled access to the site. There is an accessible route from the car park to the site nd all of our patient clinics are located on the ground floor of the building.
Are there toilets on site?
Yes, there are toilets onsite, including accessible toilets and baby changing facilities in reception.
Are there any catering facilities on site?
There are no catering facilities on site at this time. The closest catering facilities are approximately a 15-minute walk or 4-minute drive. These are ASDA, Starbucks and McDonalds. Drinking water will be provided at the clinic suite.
Will there be information/ signage available in Welsh?
Yes, there will be information and signage available in Welsh.
Appointment Information
Who decides what type of appointment I have?
You and your genetic doctor will discuss which appointment format is most suitable based on your circumstances and requirements. However, if your doctor needs to see you in person, for example, for examination, you will be asked to attend your appointment at the CIGC, with UHW appointments still available for request by exception.
What do I do if I don’t want my appointment to be held at CIGC?
If you have been invited to attend an appointment at CIGC and feel you are unable to attend, please contact the AWMGS appointment team and they will confirm whether any suitable alternatives are available.
How can I get an appointment at CIGC? How will I be referred for my appointment?
If you are eligible for an AWMGS genetic appointment and would like this to be held at the CIGC, you can make this known to your referring doctor and they can let you know whether this is possible. Alternatively, you can make this request via the AWMGS appointment team if you have already received an invitation for an appointment elsewhere, and they will confirm whether this is possible.
What clinics/ appointments take place at the new location?
The following face to face clinics will be held at the CIGC:
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General genetics clinics
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Cancer genetics clinics
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Prenatal genetics clinics
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Neurogenetics clinics
Can I contact the venue directly about my appointment?
If you have any questions about your appointment, please call the number on your appointment letter they will then be able to advise you about your appointment with AWMGS whether it be at UHW or CIGC.
How do I check in for my appointment?
When you arrive at reception, let the receptionist know you have arrived for your appointment and they will check you in.
What do I do if I need to make changes to my appointment?
If you need to make changes to your appointment, please call the number on your appointment letter and a member of the team will assist you.
Do I need to have my appointment face to face? Can I do it virtually?
Many of the patients referred to AWMGS do require a face to face appointment as the doctor may need to examine you or your child. If a virtual appointment is an option, this will be offered to you when your appointment is booked. If you have been offered a face to face appointment but would prefer a virtual one, please ring the AWMGS appointment team and they will let you know if this is possible.
What will my appointment at CIGC be like?
As with all of our appointment locations, a genetics doctor or genetic counsellor will ask you relevant questions about your personal and family history. They may then need to examine you and take photographs. At this point, you may then be required to receive a genetic test.
Will my follow up care be any different if I have an appointment at the new facility?
No, any follow up care you receive will be same as that which you would receive at any of our other clinics, or following a virtual appointment.