Laboratory investment is improving patient care across Wales

Mr Gething saw how high-tech molecular diagnostic equipment is being used to test samples, speeding up gastro-intestinal results and identifying genetic markers that help to better tailor care to the individual patient. This should mean more accurate testing with quicker results, improving treatment for patients. The project is receiving £2.5million investment over three years to fund the new system across Wales.  

This year, the Welsh Government invested more than £7m through the Efficiency Through Technology Fund, supporting projects using innovative technology to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of healthcare services. 

Mr Gething said: 

“It is vital that Wales can keep up-to-date with the latest medical technology.  The new laboratory offers more accurate testing, which leads to care tailored to the individual.

“The Efficiency Through Technology Fund has invested in projects across Wales to bring new innovations into our NHS, projects that improve outcomes for patients and deliver more from public funds.  

“The team initially received over £144,000 funding so they could rapidly evaluate how well the pilot project was working.  We have seen the positive results, which is why this funding is being scaled up so people across Wales will see the benefits.” 

Dr. Quentin Sandifer, Executive Director of Public Health Services and Medical Director, Public Health Wales, said:

“Developing  molecular capability and capacity in our laboratories will be a major piece of work for us over the next three years, made possible by the funding we have received from the ETTF.

“Among our first priorities will be providing a diagnostic service for gastroinstestinal illness, which cause very significant morbidity and mortality across Wales. This is an exciting development for the laboratories and, more importantly, for the benefits it will bring to patients in terms of rapid and accurate diagnosis. Patients across Wales will have equitable access to the best tests available allowing healthcare professionals to treat and care for them using prudent evidence based medicine”.

Other projects which have received Efficiency Through Technology funding include the Welsh Wound Innovation Centre which is developing a digital pressure ulcer reporting system within care homes that will support and educate staff leading to more effective treatment. Cardiff and Vale University Health Board are evaluating a system to help reduce frequent attenders calling for ambulances and attending Accident and Emergency and help them to receive the most appropriate care.