Will the Cabinet Minister confirm whether any performance targets, financial incentives, or other measures are linked to reductions in waiting list numbers in the NHS?
There are no financial incentives linked to reductions in NHS waiting list numbers in Wales.
Instead, the approach is based on a national planning and performance framework, supported by oversight and escalation arrangements.
NHS organisations are set clear performance measures and targets, including in relation to waiting times and access to care.
The NHS Wales Performance Framework includes a number of measures linked to waiting lists NHS Wales Performance Framework 2026-2027
These measures are used to monitor delivery and drive improvement.
In addition, the NHS Wales Planning Framework sets specific national expectations and targets, for example:
- Eliminating waits over 104 weeks for treatment
- Achieving reductions in long waits for diagnostics (target of zero over 8 weeks)
- Improving cancer treatment timelines (towards 80% within 62 days)
Performance against these targets is managed through the Oversight and Escalation Framework, which provides structured assurance and intervention where needed
This framework includes escalating levels of oversight, from routine monitoring through to enhanced intervention or special measures if performance falls short.