Medical negligence lawyer says NHS Wales 'must urgently improve' following publication of report
The "NHS Wales performance and productivity: independent review" is presented by the Ministerial Advisory Group (MAG). Formed in October 2024, MAG's objective was to review the performance and productivity of key NHS Wales services.
The group was led by former chief operating officer for NHS England Sir David Sloman, who warned Wales "starts from a challenging position". He said this was due to its relatively old and sick population, worsening health inequalities, "historically high" waiting lists and a "very challenging" financial position.
As a specialist medical negligence lawyer, I'm interested that the report focuses on planned care, diagnostics, cancer performance and urgent and emergency care, and considers ways to improve productivity and performance, including digital and data and improving regional working.
Key proposals in report
- Better management of waiting lists and prioritisation of the longest waiters
- National contracts with independent providers to help tackle backlogs, especially in cataract surgery
- Stronger medical leadership within the NHS and Welsh Government
- Creation of a new NHS Wales Performance and Productivity Unit
- Clearer, sharper accountability processes to replace what the report called the current “muddy” oversight systems
- A push for greater transparency and public reporting on performance
- Removal of unnecessary bureaucracy, with a narrowing of targets
The report emphasised that Wales already has strong foundations, including an integrated health system, skilled staff, and good national strategies. The report concludes by saying "Wales should aspire to have the leading healthcare system in the world".
The Welsh Government published its official response alongside the report. The Welsh Government is proposing to accept or accept in part all the recommendations and has stated that work is already underway to deliver many of the changes.
Health Secretary Jeremy Miles comments
Health Secretary Jeremy Miles has said: “The message in the report is very clear: we have a significant challenge in performance and in productivity. The service is not performing at the levels that we or the public need and expect it to.
“That demands a step change in our approach so we can improve the services the public receives, deliver better health outcomes they deserve, and make sure every pound spent brings the best value, as demands on the health service increase into the future.
“But the report is also optimistic. Time and again it outlines the strength of the assets we have in Wales. It highlights the commitment and skill of our staff – clinical and managerial – of good strategy, and often of good practice.”
Conclusion
The report outlines the strength of the assets we have in Wales. Nevertheless, it's clear that NHS Wales must urgently improve its performance or face growing risks to patient safety.
This report comes at the same time as the Royal College of Nursing and the British Medical Association Cymru Wales warning that patients in Wales are dying, diagnoses are missed and outcomes made worse because people are unable to get hospital beds.
As a medical negligence lawyer, I, along with my colleagues, remain committed to advocating for the rights of those affected by medical negligence and working towards a healthcare system that prioritises patient safety and well-being.
Support available
Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting individuals affected by medical care failings at the dedicated section on our website. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0808 296 2182.
There is a "high risk" of increasing patient harm and poor value for taxpayers' money if there is not an "urgent improvement and turnaround" in the Welsh NHS, according to a group of independent experts.”
