Written question WQ84856

Neurological conditions, their underlying causes and risk factors are diverse, and delivering services to people affected is complex. Even within a single diagnosis there is not always a common journey, with some able to self-manage their condition, whilst others require a range of input from a variety of healthcare and other professional groups.

FND is no exception and requires a comprehensive multi-professional approach to support rehabilitation and recovery.

GPs are likely to be the first point of contact for support. Many services, such as specialist nurses, therapies, continence services, pain and fatigue services, dietetics, offer self-referral or see on symptom access. The advice and support offered will depend on the particular issue the individual is experiencing.

The national planned care programme is focussed on improving access to outpatient services and is seeking to maximise the virtual offer, improve supported self-management and improve communications with patients.

The recent allocation of recovery monies to support planned care improvements, included a £1m fund for services to support people waiting for treatment. Health boards are able to utilise this funding to improve support for people waiting for neurological treatment.

The Welsh Government is continuing to work with the Neurological Conditions Implementation Group (NCIG) to improve services for all those living with neurological conditions across Wales. The NCIG is currently developing a neurological conditions quality statement. The quality statement is not designed to replace the existing neurological conditions delivery plan but instead will provide high-level policy intent from the Welsh Government to inform NHS planning processes.