Written question WQ100741

The Welsh Government recognises the importance of safe, sustainable and high-quality pathology services for patients and clinicians across Wales. We are taking forward the recommendation of the NHS Wales Performance and Productivity independent review through regional planning arrangements that bring health boards together to consider how pathology services should be organised for the future.

This work is being progressed through regional pathology project groups, supported by NHS Wales organisations and Welsh Government officials. The focus is on developing service models that are clinically safe, resilient, sustainable and able to support timely access to diagnostic testing, while making best use of specialist workforce, estate, equipment and digital infrastructure.

Business cases from the South East and South West Wales regional pathology project groups are expected to be submitted to the Welsh Government in autumn/winter 2027. These will set out the proposed approach to regional service configuration, the investment required and how the proposals will support safe, sustainable and fit-for-the-future pathology services.

The Welsh Government has supported Hywel Dda University Health Board and Swansea Bay University Health Board with the fees required to develop the business case for a new regional cellular pathology facility for South West Wales. We will continue to work with NHS Wales partners as these plans develop, ensuring that any proposals are considered through the appropriate planning, scrutiny and business case processes.