Part of 1. Questions to the First Minister – in the Senedd at 1:34 pm on 28 March 2023.
Firstly, I'd like to thank my colleague for asking this important question. Now, I wholeheartedly agree with the need for social prescribing, as the service will undoubtedly help individuals whilst also reducing the pressure on GPs. Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting with the Caerphilly-based company, Signum Health, which uses artificial intelligence and cloud-based technology to deliver remote healthcare and social prescribing within harder-to-reach communities. This Welsh company has already used its technology to cut waiting times in England, managing to clear a dermatology backlog in Swindon in just six months. Most importantly, patients, GPs, pharmacies and other alternative health services can connect directly and share information, meaning patients can connect with local community providers without a GP appointment. Given that we are looking to reduce waiting lists, First Minister, and reduce pressure on primary care services, as well as increase access to important services such as social prescribing, what conversations has the Welsh Government had with companies such as Signum Health to assist in this area, First Minister? Thank you.