Will the First Minister consider creating a new Deputy Minister role specifically for eyecare, in view of the unique challenges of eyecare in Wales, including the primary care element present in the Welsh general ophthalmic services system?
Relevant interest declared
I am an ophthalmologist
We have no plans to create a specific Ministerial post for eyecare. Responsibility for ophthalmic services sits firmly within the health portfolio, reflecting the importance of integrating care across the NHS.
As set out by the Cabinet Minister for Health and Care in his priorities statement to the Senedd on 2 June, this government’s plan to expand surgical and diagnostic hubs will create centres of excellence for long-neglected specialisms such as ophthalmology, to reduce patients’ waiting times.