The Welsh Government has pledged to accelerate efforts to reduce NHS waiting times, as the latest figures show a continued – though fragile – improvement in treatment backlogs across Wales.
New data published today reveals 666,700 patient pathways are currently waiting to begin NHS treatment. While still high, this represents a monthly reduction of 21,300 pathways compared with February, offering cautious optimism to health leaders grappling with sustained demand pressures.
Encouragingly, the number of patients waiting more than two years has dropped sharply. In March, just under 2,600 pathways exceeded the two‑year mark – a fall of 1,928 in a single month. The average waiting time now stands at just over 15 weeks.
Minister signals urgency on NHS performance
Despite the progress, Wales’ new Health and Care Minister, Mabon ap Gwynfor, has been clear that the current position remains unacceptable and that reform must move faster. He 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 Minister is visiting Neath Port Talbot Hospital’s surgical unit today, marking his first official NHS visit since taking office, where he will meet frontline staff and discuss delivery challenges first‑hand.
Independent review and elective care hubs planned
As part of its first 100 days, the Welsh Government has committed to commissioning an independent review of NHS performance in Wales, with a particular focus on how prolonged waiting lists are affecting population health outcomes.
Alongside this, a new expert task group will be established to develop proposals for up to 10 new elective care hubs across Wales. These hubs are intended to increase planned care capacity and reduce pressure on acute services.
A national delivery plan for the elective hubs is expected to be published by the end of 2026, providing health boards with a clearer framework for implementation and investment.
For NHS leaders and policymakers, the message from government is clear: incremental improvement is not enough, and the pace of reform must now increase to restore timely access to care across Wales.
Image credit: iStock
