Access to PET scan services for patients in North Wales was raised during First Minister’s Questions in the Senedd, with concerns highlighted about the need for patients to travel significant distances for diagnostic testing.
Janet Finch-Saunders questioned Eluned Morgan about the current lack of locally available PET scan provision in the region, stating that a number of constituents have reported travelling outside North Wales to access scans. The issue has also been raised with Jeremy Miles, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans are commonly used in cancer diagnosis, staging and monitoring, as well as in certain neurological and cardiac assessments. At present, many North Wales patients are required to travel to centres in Liverpool or Cardiff for appointments.
The Welsh Government has confirmed that work is underway to develop a new nuclear medicine centre that will include NHS-delivered PET scan services within the reach of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board. The proposed development is intended to strengthen diagnostic capacity in the region.
While the planned centre has been described as a positive step, questions remain regarding the delivery timetable. In the interim, patients continue to travel outside the region for scans, which can present additional challenges for those undergoing cancer investigations or treatment.
Speaking in the Senedd, Ms Finch-Saunders said:
“It is vital that progress on the new facility is prioritised and delivered as soon as possible.
North Wales patients deserve fair access to modern diagnostic services such as PET scans, and geography should not determine the quality or accessibility of certain healthcare.
Urgent action is needed to ensure the new centre becomes operational as soon as possible and that interim solutions are considered to reduce travel burdens in the short term.”
The Welsh Government has not yet provided a confirmed opening date for the proposed facility.