Will the Minister outline what changes are in progress for urology services in the Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board area?
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board’s operational plan for 2019-20 includes the development of the clinical strategy for urology. Work is underway to develop possible future models of care to meet the needs of the local population.
The Health Board is currently undertaking a whole service review of the urology services with the intention of developing a clinical urology strategy for North Wales. This work includes developing the business case for robotic assisted surgery to be available in North Wales – this case is nearing completion and will then be considered by the Board.
While the strategic plan is being developed, work is continuing to improve services aligned to the National Planned Care Programme for Urology:
- Following receipt of NICE Guidance the radiology service has, produced an implementation plan which has been submitted to Welsh Government for the commencement MP-MRI scanning in two phases.
- Work is underway for the purchase and maintenance of a PSA Tracker system; this will facilitate patient self-management for those men who are on a PSA surveillance pathway. This will reduce the need for unnecessary outpatient attendances. It is anticipated that once the procurement process is complete that the system will become operational during quarter four of 2019/20.
Theatre and outpatient productivity programmes are being developed to generate internal productivity and efficiency to help reduce waiting list for both referrals and follow-ups. A national campaign will commence during quarter two 2019/20 to recruit consultant urologist posts across North Wales.