Following the finding that the number of avoidable deaths in Wales has increased by 8% for men and 6% for females from 2014 to 2016, Janet Finch-Saunders, Assembly Member for Aberconwy, has spoken of her concern and is calling on the Welsh Government to take urgent action to reduce the alarming increase.

Janet said:

“It is extremely concerning that we are seeing increasing numbers of avoidable deaths in Wales.  For example, we saw an extra 23.2 deaths per 100,000 in 2016, bringing the latest male mortality rate to 323.6.

“What these figures indicate is that there are a significant number of deaths in Wales which could have been avoided through good quality healthcare.

“As the statistics show, there are avoidable death across Wales, and within each health board area.  However, given Betsi Cadwlaldr University Health Board is under the direct control of the Welsh Government, I am concerned that it does not have the lowest figure in Wales.

“Going forward, I have written to the Cabinet Secretary asking him to explain what measures the Welsh Government will take to help address this potentially serious weakness identified in our health care system: an increase in avoidable deaths in Wales”.

Written Assembly Question to Vaughan Gething AM, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Services

Will the Cabinet Secretary make a statement on the fact that the number of avoidable deaths has increased in Wales from 2014 to 2016, and explain what action the Welsh Government will take to help reduce the number going forward?

ENDS

Notes

Avoidable mortality in the UK: 2016

Avoidable mortality in England and Wales: 2014

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