GPs to play crucial role in transforming Wales’ health service

The Welsh Government has outlined plans to strengthen the role of GPs in an effort to improve patient care and reduce NHS waiting lists.

Speaking at the Welsh Local Medical Committees Conference, Health Secretary Jeremy Miles stressed the importance of transforming healthcare delivery to keep care closer to home.

The initiative will see GPs take a more active role in managing waiting lists and facilitating patient flow through the health system.

This will include expanding diagnostic testing in local communities, reducing the need for hospital visits.

A key focus will be on improving continuity of care, particularly for vulnerable patients.

A new scheme aims to ensure that individuals with chronic conditions consistently see the same health professional at each appointment, which is expected to improve health outcomes and support independent living.

[Health Secretary Jeremy Miles]

Mr Miles acknowledged that moving more services from hospitals into community settings would require a shift in resources.

He said health boards would be expected to declare and increase primary care spending to support this transition.

“It is vital we work together to address the pressures in our NHS by improving access patients have to the care they need, and the flow through our system,” Mr Miles said.

He emphasised that this approach is not about overburdening general medical services but redesigning how services are commissioned in a way that is both viable and sustainable.

“GPs play a crucial role in their communities. I want to work with them to develop a primary and community care offer that values the skills and expertise of general practice and gives GPs the tools to thrive and delivers the care patients need closer to home,” he added.

The initiative forms part of the Welsh Government’s broader strategy to rebalance the health system and address pressures on hospital services.