Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

Pressures on the Welsh NHS will continue to rise as the population gets older, Wales’ health minister has warned.

Eluned Morgan’s comments come after following a report from Wales’ chief scientific adviser for health, which looks at the likely pressures on the NHS over the next ten to 25 years.

The report shows almost a fifth of Wales’ population will be aged 70 or above within the next 15 years, while 22% more people are expected to have diabetes.

It also shows the number of people with four or more long-term conditions could double.

Mrs Morgan said: “As we look towards the future, we must protect the fundamental principles upon which our NHS was created whilst understanding that we will all need to rise to the challenges that lie ahead.

“We must continue to rebalance the system towards prevention and community-based health and social care, as well as making sure our services are used wisely, recognising that, every time we use the system, there is a cost.”

The minister continued: “But this isn’t just about how the NHS adapts – lifestyle and economic inequalities are major determinants for health.

“Many serious conditions, including some cancers and type two diabetes, are preventable so we can all play our part by making healthier choices. While all parts of government and society can contribute to tackling health inequalities.”

Mrs Morgan has said she will be asking for a review of the Welsh Government’s ‘A Healthier Wales‘ plan, but said the report backs up plans outlined in the Welsh Government’s ten-year health strategy.

She said: “This report shows our focus on prevention, addressing health inequalities and more care in the community is right, but in light of this new evidence now is the time to make sure the actions in our plan are on the right track.”