Queues for heart surgery are extensive

Staff at the hospital - which is run by the North Glamorgan NHS Trust - have developed a fast-track approach to treating heart attack patients in the area which has the highest incidence of heart disease in Wales.

A report released by the Commission for Health Improvement on Monday says that the hospital's approach to treating heart patients is a significant achievement.

Patients with a suspected heart attacks by-pass the accident and emergency department, so that they are given specialised treatment as quickly as possible.

The commission's report has, however, pinpointed some areas for improvement within the trust - which covers Merthyr Tydfil, and the Cynon and Rhymney Valleys.

All concerned should be extremely proud of what they have accomplished

Jill Pen, chair of North Glamorgan NHS Trust

It has criticised a lack of physiotherapy for some stroke patients and urged the improvement of facilities for mental health patients.

The Commission praised the way the trust had worked closely with the ambulance and primary care services to develop a new high-speed system for emergency admissions.

North Glamorgan NHS Trust chair Jill Penn has welcomed the report by the Commission - an independent body set up to monitor and improve clinical care across England and Wales.

"Prince Charles Hospital is now recognised as the provider of one of the best and quickest services for heart attack sufferers anywhere in Britain," Ms Penn said.

"Our professional and hard-working team is providing a service to the local community that is second to none in Wales."

"This is an example of the high standards achieved at Prince Charles Hospital since the trust was formed five years ago. All concerned should be extremely proud of what they have accomplished."