Written question WQ100785

The Welsh Government aims to ensure that people of all ages who live with, or are affected by, a neurological condition have timely and equitable access to high-quality services that support them to live well. These aims are set out in the Quality Statement for neurological conditions.

I expect health boards to plan and deliver safe, sustainable services that respond to the needs of their populations and comply with professional standards, clinical guidance and national commissioning arrangements.

When proposing service changes, health boards must undertake a rigorous options appraisal and impact assessment. They must also engage appropriately with local communities, patients, staff and partners, including Llais and other health boards, in accordance with national guidance: How to make changes to health services: guidance for NHS organisations | GOV.WALES.

Paediatric neurology services at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board are commissioned through the NHS Wales Joint Commissioning Committee (JCC). The JCC is actively engaging with the health board about the on-call service. My officials maintain a constructive relationship with the JCC and continue to monitor the matter through these arrangements.