Over the last 27 years under Welsh Labour Governments, inadequate social care provision has placed significant pressure on hospitals. Patients have often been unable to leave hospital because appropriate care home placements were unavailable.
As a result, hospital beds have been unnecessarily occupied, highlighting the clear link between health and social care services.
The Plaid Cymru-led Welsh Government has now separated responsibility for the two sectors. Janet Finch-Saunders, Member of the Welsh Parliament for Bangor Conwy Môn , warned this risks creating a greater disconnect between health and social care services.
Janet said:
“Families and medical staff frequently raise with me the impact that delays in transferring patients from hospital to care settings have on hospital resources. Beds remain occupied unnecessarily, reducing capacity for patients in need of treatment.
“These delays are a serious failing that the Welsh Government must urgently address. I am deeply concerned that separating ministerial responsibility for Health and Social Care will create further disconnect and add to the challenges already facing both sectors.
“I urge the First Minister, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, to reconsider this decision and reunite the two departments.”
ENDS
Photo: Janet Finch-Saunders MS/AS
