New Welsh Government sets out NHS reform plan as latest waiting list figures published
The new Welsh Government has pledged to commission an independent review of NHS performance in Wales within its first 100 days, alongside plans for up to 10 new elective care hubs.
The commitment came as the Welsh Government published figures on Thursday showing 666,700 patient pathways waiting to start NHS treatment in Wales in March.
That figure was 21,300 lower than the previous month, and the lowest since August 2021.
Just under 2,600 pathways were waiting more than two years, a decrease of 1,928 on the previous month.
The average waiting time for treatment was just over 15 weeks.
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, which runs Wrexham Maelor Hospital and Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, was the worst-performing health board in Wales on emergency department 12-hour waits, the 62-day cancer treatment target, one-year and two-year planned treatment waits, and eight-week diagnostic breaches.
Health and Care Minister Mabon ap Gwynfor MS said:
“Too many people are waiting too long for NHS treatment. That is the reality and it is an issue we are determined to fix.”
“It is people’s lives we are talking about, and my job is to make sure the Welsh Government works closely with the NHS to ensure people who need treatment get it much quicker.”
“It is vital we see improvements in the waiting list, waiting times and access to ambulance and emergency department services, and I want to recognise the dedication of NHS Wales staff who are working to drive the progress we all need to see.”
The independent review will focus on the impact of waiting lists on population health.
An expert task group will be set up to develop plans for up to 10 new elective care hubs across Wales.
A delivery plan for the hubs is due to be published by the end of 2026.
The Welsh Government has not said where any of the proposed hubs would be located.
The minister visited the surgical unit at Neath Port Talbot Hospital on Wednesday, his first visit since taking office.
Mr ap Gwynfor said:
“I came into this role knowing what people’s experiences have been when it comes to waiting for NHS treatment.”
He said these “figures are a starting point. We will be honest with the people of Wales about the progress we make, and we will rightly be judged on results. We intend to meet the scale of the challenge ahead.”
Mr ap Gwynfor was appointed Health and Care Minister on 13 May, when the new Plaid Cymru Welsh Government took office.
The 100-day pledge runs until around 21 August.
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email news (@) deeside.com
NEW: Add Deeside.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Latest News
