§ Mr. RichardsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what measures are being taken to promote improved health practices in Wales.
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesUnder the strategic intent and direction for the NHS in Wales 10 health gain priority areas have been identified, where the service and its partners will focus their efforts to improve the health status of the people of Wales.
The Welsh Health Planning Forum is preparing detailed protocols for investment in health gain. Eight reports have already been issued. This material has been widely recognised as first class by other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond and complements the pioneering work of the Health Promotion Authority for Wales.
The protocol forms the basis for the local strategies for health being developed by the district health authorities and family health services authorities in partnership with other local organisations, including local government. The second round of local strategies is now complete, and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will consider these early in the new year.
The various plans and strategies being developed by NHS Wales are being brought together into a unified 10 year strategy, so providing a clear and coherent framework for future action. This document, to be known as "Caring for the Future", is currently being discussed with a wide range of service interests. The aim is to publish it in December. Further debate on its key themes will take place next year.
The new health care environment introduced last year provides the appropriate structure for taking these important initiatives ahead in an efficient and effective way. The patients charter also plays a key role by ensuring that the NHS focuses clearly on the needs of individual patients.