Welsh NHS launches new structure

As of 1 October 2009, the organisational structure of NHS Wales has changed. The previous system of eight NHS trusts and 22 local health boards (LHBs) has been replaced by three new LHBs. The new LHBs will be responsible for secondary care services including hospitals and community services as well as primary care services such as GPs, pharmacies and dental surgeries. A key aim for the new boards will be to reduce unnecessary hospital admissions, by providing as many services as possible within the community or at the patient’s home, and to reduce waiting times for operations. In an article on the Wales Online website, Welsh NHS Confederation policy and communications manager Jonathan Davies expresses the organisation’s commitment to balancing the growing need for continuing care funding against budgetary pressures. He comments: ‘Increased pressure and demand on NHS services from an ageing population whose needs are often complex will mean that the new NHS faces a steady growth of demand for its services. The impact of the growing number of elderly patients will also lead to increased numbers of people being eligible for continuing healthcare. It is important that these patients receive the appropriate care in the right clinical setting. But, as a result of the Grogan legal judgement, the cost impact on the health budget will be substantial.’ For more information on the new LHBs and the areas of Wales they will cover, please visit the NHS Direct Wales website.