Will the Minister outline the anticipated timeline for the provision of paediatric rheumatology services in south Wales as developed between Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and the Welsh Health Specialised Services Committee?
The Welsh Health Specialised Services Committee (WHSSC) has agreed to prioritise funding a tertiary Paediatric Rheumatology service within its 2019-22 Integrated Commissioning Plan. WHSSC is currently working with the provider to agree a plan and timescales for implementation of the new service.
WHSSC wrote to Cardiff and Vale University Health Board in July 2019 agreeing to release the funding for the paediatric rheumatology phase one investment. Funding will be provided to recruit staff and Cardiff and Vale University Health Board will provide reports to WHSSC regarding the service as it is implemented.
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board is in the process of recruiting staff including a consultant paediatric rheumatologist, a paediatric nurse and a paediatric physiotherapist. I am advised there are no issues anticipated with recruiting to these posts and anticipate the service will begin this autumn.