The Assembly Member for Aberconwy, Janet Finch-Saunders AM, has called on the First Minister of Wales to review the procurement of NHS treatments, following the revelation that almost £255m is spent on treatment and services over the border each year.

Janet said:

“We know that the number of people waiting over a year for surgery in Wales have increased by 400% over the last year – forcing local health boards to look over the border to help them to reduce lists.

“46,000 people receive treatment over the border each year, with the annual bill for this coming in at £255m.

“This treatment could – and should – be undertaken within Wales. People must be able to access medical treatment as close to home as possible.

“The Welsh Government must act to ensure that procurement of services, jobs, and treatment within Wales is a priority for our health service – to ensure our NHS is sustainable and provides more jobs and development opportunities for our workforce.”

ENDS

Link to video of the FMQ: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KlhHK6czyjo