Written question WQ99520

There is no evidence to suggest that a separate devolved NHS management structure is, in itself, responsible for poorer patient outcomes, higher administrative costs or cross-border barriers.

Welsh Government keeps the performance, governance and financial sustainability of NHS Wales under continuing review through its planning, performance, escalation and accountability arrangements.

Health boards in Wales are responsible for the planning and delivery of services for their local population, and for ensuring the provision of safe and timely access to good quality clinical services. The role of the Welsh Government is to set the strategic direction and to ensure robust accountability arrangements are in place that enable Welsh Government to scrutinise performance and hold NHS organisations to account for the delivery of services.

In line with our manifesto commitments and First 100 Day plan, we are undertaking a series of reforms to strengthen the governance architecture of the NHS to support better outcomes, leadership and accountability, including a review of the effectiveness of the existing escalation and intervention framework.