What consideration has the Minister given to replicating The Transvaginal Mesh Removal (Cost Reimbursement) (Scotland) Bill in Wales?
It is for each of the UK administration to decide how it supports women affected by the use of vaginal synthetic mesh. Rather than adopt a strictly legislative approach, I consider that it is much more important for women who have suffered pain or complications due to the use of mesh, that they are offered the right care and treatment by suitably trained clinicians within the NHS in Wales.
My officials are engaging with the UK Government to ensure that mesh removal services in Wales are offered to the same standards as those in England and that links are built across clinical networks to ensure best practice is shared, the same high standards of care are applied and that suitable referral pathways are in place so women who wish to be treated at mesh centres in other parts of the UK are able to do so.
The pelvic health and well-being co-ordinators in each health board, funded by the Women’s Health Implementation Group established by Welsh Government, will continue to support women affected by mesh, acting as a first point of contact and signposting them to appropriate services.