Written question WQ89139

The figures below have been provided by the Artificial Limb and Appliance Centres and are based on data from Episodes of Care (EoCs) closed since 1st April 2023.

Percentage of people in Wales who receive their wheelchair from the Artificial Limb and Appliance Centres from the date of referral

Within 3 months

Within 4 - 6 months

Within 7 - 9 months

Within 10 - 12 months

Over 12 months

North Wales

Children

48%

34%

10%

3%

5%

Adults

69%

9%

8%

5%

9%

South Wales

Children

29%

31%

29%

9%

2%

Adults

79%

11%

5%

3%

2%

It is important to note that children’s wheelchairs are often bespoke rather than standard provisions, which will have an impact on the length of time required to manufacture an appropriate wheelchair for the child.

Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the majority of people received their treatment within the 26 week Referral to Treatment target. There were however a few exceptions who were required to wait a little longer than the 26 weeks due to complexity of the person’s clinical need.

Waiting lists have increased post pandemic because of services only operating an emergency service during the Covid-19 pandemic. Waiting list trajectories have been produced by the Artificial Limb and Appliance Centre services and they are working to clear the backlog.

Service users were reluctant to attend the service during 2021-22, which also impacted on the waiting list, with the service now seeing an increase in referrals.

The complexity of referrals has also increased due to the lack of intervention during the pandemic, such as additional rehabilitation.