Written question WQ86707

I understand this figure comes from UK-wide research undertaken by the University of Nottingham for Crohn’s and Colitis UK earlier this year, so these timescales are not specific to Wales. According to NHS Wales management information from 2019, around 36% of people waited more than a year for a diagnosis of Crohn’s Disease.

This is still too long, and I have every sympathy for people who are suffering with symptoms and whose diagnosis is unclear or takes time to emerge. We must recognise that GPs are seeing people every day with common symptoms and that they must manage uncertainty and risk. Having good referral pathways and training and awareness is key to identifying patients who may have specific conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

The NHS Wales IBD Working Group is developing pathways and good progress is being made in ensuring that GPs have access to faecal calprotectin testing which can help with the earlier diagnosis of IBD. There are also several resources available aimed at primary care professionals to raise awareness and support decision-making.

Crohn’s and Colitis UK has recently launched a symptom checker for patients to enable them to have informed conversations with their GPs. In addition, the National Endoscopy Programme is overseeing work aimed at increasing diagnostic capacity for colonoscopy.

As we implement the National Clinical Framework, gastroenterology services will be supported by a national strategic network to ensure that all Welsh citizens receive an equitable and high-quality service, irrespective of where they live and that services are put on a sustainable footing for the long term.