First quarterly report reveals progress in Betsi Cadwaladr UHB’s special measures

Signs of improvement are emerging from the North Wales’ health board, offering encouragement to local residents, according to Wales’ Health Minister.

In a written statement, Eluned Morgan MS, Minister for Health and Social Services, has unveiled the first quarterly report detailing the progress of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) since being placed back under Special Measures on 27 February 2023.

The health board was subjected to this intensive intervention due to serious concerns about the board effectiveness, service quality, governance, patient safety, and financial management, among other issues.

Ms Morgan was heavily criticised for her handling of failings at the Betsi and its return to special measures. ‌​

Opposition politicians have said the health board should never have been taken out of special measures, claiming the move was political. ‌​

When BCUHB was put back into special measures, eleven independent members of the Board resigned, saying, “We have no confidence in the Welsh Government’s grasp of the situation.” ‌​

Allegations were made that the Health Minister told the independent board members, “they had 50 minutes to resign or she’d sack them, and in so doing bar them from other public appointments for two years.” ‌​

Ms Morgan’s decision to dismiss board members was criticised by many, who argue that the move targets the wrong individuals. ‌​

This first quarterly report focuses on the developments and improvements made within the period of March to May 2023, published on Thursday.

It notes that Special Measures does not imply the Welsh Government taking over the day-to-day running of the health board – that remains the responsibility of the board itself.

Ms Morgan revealed that a new interim chair and independent members have been appointed to join the existing executive directors to form a new board.

A Special Measures Assurance Board has also been established, chaired by the Welsh Government, to support BCUHB’s journey to improve and eventually navigate an effective route out of Special Measures.

Notably, the quarterly report outlines several achievements, including the creation of a new board, and continuing success in cancer services, which have historically been one of the best performing in Wales.

The report also highlighted specific improvements, such as occupational therapists in Flintshire and Wrexham working from GP practices, thereby reducing waiting times by an average of nine weeks.

Despite the positives, challenges remain. The minister noted that vascular services at the health board are still a concern.

The Healthcare Inspectorate Wales de-escalated the services from requiring significant improvement on 29 June, acknowledging the progress made, but further work is necessary.

In an effort to honour the hard work of the thousands of staff who live and work in North Wales, the report also detailed successes in various areas such as patient experience and stroke care.

Innovations like the Morris Café for dementia patients at Wrexham Maelor Hospital and the NHS 111 press 2 service for mental health being made available 24/7 in North Wales are just a few examples of the positive steps being made.

While the report suggests significant strides in certain areas, it acknowledges the long road ahead.

Ms Morgan, however, remains positive, stating that the developments are “encouraging signs for people living in north Wales.”

A further report on the progress made during the second three-month phase is expected in the Autumn, where more light will be shed on the efficacy of these Special Measures in shaping the future of BCUHB.