Following a report this summer, the Welsh Government has agreed on a number of refreshed actions that will support the delivery its plan for health and social care.
The plan, named A Healthier Wales: Our plan for health and social care, was launched six years ago has brought a number of changes in that way that services are delivered in Wales, however there have also been significant changes around the country. These relate to demographics, as well as economic and societal challenges.
In the update, a number of areas are covered by a plethora of actions that will drive the plan forward. These areas are:
- Preventative
- Person Centred
- Sustainable
- Equitable
- High Quality and Safe
- Digital and Data
- Workforce
- Research, Development and Innovation
- Co-Production and Partnership
- Integration
In response to the refreshed actions, Assistant Director of the Welsh NHS Confederation Nesta Lloyd-Jones commented:
“NHS leaders welcomed the A Healthier Wales plan published in 2018. Although many similar challenges remain, the last six years has seen a significant evolution within the health and care system in Wales and the heightened demographic, economic and societal challenges it faces.
“The level and nature of demand on health and care services has shifted in recent years due to external factors such as the Covid-19 pandemic and post-pandemic pressures, the cost-of-living crisis, Brexit and many more.
“As highlighted in the NHS in 10+ years report, projected challenges facing the health and care system are set to continue to place unsustainable demands on our services in years to come.
“As well as external factors, structures and organisations within, and linking to, the NHS in Wales have evolved. This includes new organisations and structures such as Digital Health and Care Wales, NHS Wales Executive, Llais and Health Education and Improvement Wales.
“The actions in the refresh reflect the changes needed to work towards a sustainable health and care system and will require the NHS to continue to work closely with wider sectors and partners to tackle issues including the wider determinants of health and reducing inequalities.
“Ultimately, NHS leaders share the goal of improving current and future health outcomes for the people of Wales.”
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