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A former podiatrist has been appointed as Wales’ new chief allied health professions officer.
Gareth Evans will provide expert leadership and advise the Welsh Government on the workforce covering 13 key healthcare roles, including physiotherapists, speech therapists, dietitians, clinical psychologists, and podiatrists.
Allied health professionals (AHPs) work across the NHS, social care, schools, and housing. They focus on early intervention, rehabilitation, and helping patients manage long-term conditions at home rather than in hospital.
Mr Evans takes over the role from the retiring Ruth Crowder.
The appointment comes as NHS Wales attempts to shift more services into community-based settings to relieve pressure on overcrowded acute hospitals.
Mr Evans said: “In this role I will strengthen the contribution of allied health professions across Wales as we shift to community-based care.
“I look forward to championing and representing the profession in Wales. I am also committed to providing expert professional leadership and advice to support the contribution of AHPs across health, social care and the wider system.”
Wales’ health minister, Mabon ap Gwynfor, said: “I am pleased we have moved quickly to make this appointment. The Allied Health Professions sector plays a vital role in our health system, and raising its profile is a key priority for this government.
“I look forward to working with Gareth Evans to deliver on our ambitions and improve outcomes for people in Wales.
“As we focus on preventative health, it’s important that the contribution of allied health professions is reflected across the health and care system.”
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