Wales has appointed Gareth Evans as its new Chief Allied Health Professions Officer, a key leadership role that comes at a pivotal time for the nation's health and care services as they increasingly focus on prevention and community-based care.
The appointment places Allied Health Professions at the heart of efforts to transform healthcare delivery across Wales, with a stronger emphasis on helping people remain healthy, independent and supported within their communities.
As Chief Allied Health Professions Officer, Gareth Evans will provide expert professional leadership and strategic advice on the contribution of AHPs across health, social care and wider public services. His role will support the Welsh Government's ambition to strengthen preventative healthcare and improve outcomes across the population.
Allied Health Professions encompass 13 distinct professional groups and represent a significant workforce operating across the NHS, social care, education, housing and community services. These professions include physiotherapists, clinical psychologists, dietitians, podiatrists and speech and language therapists, among others.
AHPs play a critical role throughout the patient journey, supporting prevention, early intervention, rehabilitation, reablement, recovery and long-term condition management. Their work helps people maintain their health, recover from illness and injury, and live independently for longer.
A podiatrist by profession, Gareth Evans brings extensive experience from across health and care services, making him well placed to champion the growing contribution of Allied Health Professionals across Wales.
Chief Allied Health Professions Officer, Gareth Evans, said:
“In this role I will strengthen the contribution of Allied Health Professions across Wales as we shift to community-based care. I look forward to championing and representing the profession in Wales. I am also committed to providing expert professional leadership and advice to support the contribution of AHPs across health, social care and the wider system.”
The Welsh Government has highlighted the importance of elevating the profile of Allied Health Professions as part of its wider health reform agenda, recognising the sector's contribution to preventative care, workforce sustainability and improved patient outcomes.
The Cabinet Minister for Health and Care, Mabon ap Gwynfor, said:
“I am pleased we have moved quickly to make this appointment. The Allied Health Professions sector plays a vital role in our health system, and raising its profile is a key priority for this Government. I look forward to working with Gareth Evans to deliver on our ambitions and improve outcomes for people in Wales. As we focus on preventative health, it's important that the contribution of Allied Health Professions is reflected across the health and care system.”
The appointment signals a renewed focus on harnessing the expertise of Allied Health Professionals to support the delivery of sustainable healthcare services, reduce pressure on acute care settings and improve the health and wellbeing of communities across Wales.
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