6. Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Increasing Allied Health Professionals in Primary and Community Care

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:20 pm on 24 January 2023.

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Photo of Gareth Davies Gareth Davies Conservative 5:20, 24 January 2023

Thank you for your statement this afternoon, Minister. Before I was elected to the Senedd, I worked in physiotherapy for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, so I'm all too aware of the problems that AHPs face in delivering good-quality care in the community. I welcome today's statement and the announcement of the £5 million, because it really is a step in the right direction. I can't remember the amount of times that I'd say to patients, 'Look, I'm happy to give you a referral to community physio, but you do know you might not be seen for two weeks, and that's if you're lucky.' So, it is a step in the right direction, and I'd reiterate what Russell George mentioned in terms of how that will be spent across Wales so that nobody’s missing out, whether they live in Rhoose or in Rhyl.

I'd like to specifically focus on care homes, if I may, and the quality of discharges, as that plays a vital role in the patient flow and ensuring that we prevent bed blocking in step-down facilities. A lot of the problems that AHPs face in the community are due a lack of capacity to treat elderly care home residents, leading to a higher risk of deconditioning, readmission to hospital and a lack of good-quality rehab. So, what assurances can today's statement give that the £5 million announcement will provide a laser-like focus on increasing capacity for AHPs to regularly visit care homes in north Wales specifically, and provide the vital care that our local elderly people so rightly deserve? Thank you.