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Plan unveiled to boost respiratory health in Wales

The Welsh Government recently launched an updated plan for improvement of respiratory health in Wales. The plan launched defines the Government's vision for respiratory services along with responsive actions of the National Health Service in Wales.

In 2015, an estimated 15% of Welsh adults received treatment for a respiratory condition, whereas respiratory diseases accounted for >16% of mortality in Wales. Additionally, Wales is estimated to have 59,000 children living with asthma, making up 9.5% of the total asthma population.

The plan focuses on certain key areas including enhancement of smoking cessation services, improvements in COPD diagnosis and minimising variation in prescribing. Among the commitments that the health boards have taken up as a part of the plan include:

  • Appointment of a flu vaccine crusader.
  • Carbon monoxide monitoring and referral for smokers attending respiratory outpatient services.
  • Providing asthma action plans to patients and parents.
  • Better accessibility of exercise-based programmes for those with chronic lung issues.

Health Secretary Vaughan Gething commented: "With this plan, we hope to improve the quality of life for many patients with acute or chronic respiratory diseases. This plan will support health boards to provide more consistent services across Wales and to deliver services reaching national standards of care for respiratory disease.”


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