Janet Finch-Saunders MS recently raised concerns during First Minister’s Questions in the Senedd with the First Minister, Eluned Morgan, about the lack of locally available PET scan services in North Wales. This shortage is forcing patients to travel long distances to access vital diagnostic tests.
The issue has been highlighted by numerous constituents in Aberconwy who have had to travel significant distances to receive PET scans. It has also been raised with the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Jeremy Miles.
Currently, many patients are required to travel to places such as Liverpool and even as far as Cardiff to access PET scans. For individuals already facing serious health concerns, including cancer investigations and ongoing treatment, these long journeys add further physical, emotional and financial strain at an already difficult time. Travel of this distance is particularly challenging for elderly patients, those undergoing treatment, and families trying to provide support.
The Welsh Government has confirmed it is in the process of developing a new nuclear medicine centre which will include NHS-delivered PET scan services within the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board reach. This has come as a welcome step and recognition that North Wales needs improved diagnostic capacity. However, questions remain about timescales and delivery, as patients continue to face significant inconvenience and distress in the meantime.
Janet Finch-Saunders, Senedd Member for Aberconwy said:
“It is vital that progress on the new facility is prioritised and delivered as soon as possible.
North Wales patients deserve fair access to modern diagnostic services such as PET scans, and geography should not determine the quality or accessibility of certain healthcare.
Urgent action is needed to ensure the new centre becomes operational as soon as possible and that interim solutions are considered to reduce travel burdens in the short term.”
