Written question WQ94372

Improving access to GP services for everyone in Wales is a priority. Reasonable adjustments to care are expected under the Equality Act 2010 to ensure people are treated no less favourably because of their disability.

Working in partnership with Improvement Cymru, the Welsh Government has developed a number of resources to support health professionals and people with learning disabilities.

A co-produced Primary Care Resource Pack includes an easy-read invitation letter, appointment letter and checklist with accompanying resources to help people with a learning disability understand more about particular health conditions. To ensure consistent messaging nationally, a Delivering Healthcare to People with Learning Disabilities Education Pack for all those involved in the health check processes was developed. These resources, and the importance of health checks, have been promoted through national conferences, events and various digital campaigns in recent years.

A co-produced once-for-Wales health profile for adults and children and young people was commissioned to help improve patient safety. This clearly identifies an individual’s needs, enabling health professionals to quickly and effectively make any reasonable adjustments that help facilitate an improved patient experience.

An evaluation of the health profile was undertaken and found it is being used to promote safe and person-centred care across Wales. The review made recommendations for further improvement which are currently being taken forward with stakeholders.

The Learning Disability Educational Framework for Healthcare Staff in Wales recognises staff require differing levels of education and skills reflective of their contact with people with a learning disability. Currently the NHS provides mandatory foundation training for all healthcare staff in a public-facing role. Focus in the coming months will be on increasing uptake among staff in primary care. Health boards also provide specialist learning disability healthcare services, working closely with GP practices to support them to meet the health needs of adults with a learning disability.

Work is also under way supporting primary care liaison nurse and primary care cluster link staff at workshops that have been held throughout Wales to share good practice in delivery approaches and reduce unwarranted variation.