Siambr · Steve Bayliss
Written questions
52 written questions on record from the Seventh Senedd on, newest first. Page 2 of 2.
WQ99146 · Tabled · Answered
Further to OQ64170, what action is the Welsh Government taking in Swansea Bay University Health Board to improve cancer waiting times for residents of Afan Ogwr Rhondda, and what assessment has been made of any differences in performance compared with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
Cancer is one of the most significant health challenges facing Wales and is a central priority for this government. We have started work on the development of a National Cancer Plan and will be issuing a Written Statement before the end of this term.
Cancer waiting times are addressed through the intervention and support mechanisms of the oversight and escalation framework for NHS Wales. Improvement and performance is also supported by NHS Wales Performance & Improvement.
While Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB was de-escalated to level 1 for cancer performance in February 2026; we recognise the areas of significant challenge within the health boards, including the provision of histopathology services which is especially affecting Swansea Bay UHB who also provide some services to Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB. Swansea Bay UHB are introducing mitigating actions, including the outsourcing of some services to help speed up access to diagnostic tests and results. These actions should help improve overall performance within the health board.
Both organisations are continuing to improve the operational delivery of clinical pathways while also addressing longer-term service design.
Swansea Bay UHB currently remains in level 4 escalation for performance and outcomes for cancer. The de-escalation criteria states the health board must achieve a performance of at least 60% and sustain this improvement for at least three consecutive months. Further details are included in the most recent Swansea Bay UHB escalation framework published on the Welsh Government website.
WQ98669 · Tabled · Answered
What assessment has the Government made of the reasons for the delay in publishing the NHS Wales primary care pathway for Ehlers-Danlos syndromes and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders, and when does the Government expect the pathway to be published for use across Wales?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
Substantive response
Official verbatim record: each question and answer as the Record prints it. Answers are signed with a job title, as published.