Welsh NHS Confederation submits evidence to the Welsh Affairs Committee on cross-border healthcare
Key points
With significant cross-border flow of patients between Wales and England, our evidence highlighted the potential benefits and challenges to cross-border healthcare. While cross-border healthcare supports patient outcomes and access to health services, the differences in funding and policies between the two health systems can create complexities.
Opportunities include improved patient outcomes, collaboration, knowledge sharing and efficient use of resources by preventing unnecessary duplication of services.
Addressing challenges and capitalising on the opportunities of cross-border healthcare requires ongoing collaboration between the Welsh and UK governments, as well as a patient-centred approach across both NHSs that prioritises access to quality healthcare for all.
Ensuring equitable access to high-quality care for all patients, regardless of their location, requires ongoing collaboration between the Welsh and UK governments and a patient-centred approach that prioritises seamless care across the border.