Wednesday, 24 October 2012
Patients’ voice for Wales: Health Minister seeks public views on the future of Community Health Councils in Wales.
In April 2012, the Minister for Health and Social Services, Lesley Griffiths, invited the Welsh Institute for Health and Social Care to undertake a review of the functions, role and operations of Community Health Council
In April 2012, the Minister for Health and Social Services, Lesley Griffiths, invited the Welsh Institute for Health and Social Care to undertake a review of the functions, role and operations of Community Health Council
A consultation published today (Wednesday 24 October) seeks responses to the Welsh Government’s proposals for the future development of CHCs following this review.
One of the key recommendations of the review is for the Welsh Government to make it a priority to improve the diversity of CHC membership so CHCs become more representative of the people they represent.
The Minister said: “As I set out in Together for Health, the Welsh Government’s vision for a world-class health service for Wales, I want the people of Wales to have a strong voice in shaping its future. Wales is unique within the UK in having Community Health Councils to help fulfil this role."
“I want Community Health Councils to speak for patients and help resolve complaints and problems swiftly and thoroughly. They play a leading role in ensuring the National Health Service delivers for the people of Wales and, therefore, must have the structures and arrangements in place to enable them to perform well."
One of the key recommendations of the review is for the Welsh Government to make it a priority to improve the diversity of CHC membership so CHCs become more representative of the people they represent.
The Minister said: “As I set out in Together for Health, the Welsh Government’s vision for a world-class health service for Wales, I want the people of Wales to have a strong voice in shaping its future. Wales is unique within the UK in having Community Health Councils to help fulfil this role."
“I want Community Health Councils to speak for patients and help resolve complaints and problems swiftly and thoroughly. They play a leading role in ensuring the National Health Service delivers for the people of Wales and, therefore, must have the structures and arrangements in place to enable them to perform well."
“As Local Health Boards engage with communities on proposals for reconfiguration of health services, it is more important than ever that a broad range of people are involved in the work of CHCs. I believe CHCs need to look to involve groups such as the unemployed, mothers with young children, and people with full time jobs. They should also look at different ways of working so that people who find it difficult to attend meetings can participate."
“I urge anyone with an interest to read the review and the consultation on our proposals for the future of CHCs, and to respond with their views by 14 January 2013.”
Source:
Health in Wales