Janet Finch-Saunders, Member for Aberconwy, has voiced serious concerns over the Welsh Government’s mismanagement of cancer care, as revealed in a damning Audit Wales report.
Despite increased funding, systemic failings continue to cause treatment delays, capacity issues, and subpar patient outcomes compared to the UK average.
Closing a recent debate, Janet highlighted the shocking case of an Aberconwy constituent who, despite being referred on the urgent two-week cancer pathway, now faces a staggering 20-week wait for treatment due to staffing shortages—without even receiving a biopsy.
Failures within Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board are forcing patients to turn to private care, further exposing critical diagnostic shortcomings.
Commenting on the debate Janet said:
“I am appalled by the findings of the recent Audit Wales report. It’s unacceptable that no health board in Wales has met the 62-day cancer treatment target since 2020, and our cancer mortality rates are now the second highest in the UK.
“As my constituents know all too well, the failures of Betsi Health Board exemplify the postcode lottery in Welsh healthcare. A 20-week wait for an urgent referral is disgraceful, and lives are being put at risk.
“The Welsh Government’s inability to tackle these systemic problems is costing lives. Delays, poor workforce planning, and a growing reliance on private care are unacceptable. Cancer patients in Wales deserve better.
“The Welsh Conservatives are calling for immediate action: investment in workforce expansion, better diagnostics, targeted interventions like lung health checks for high-risk groups, and leadership that ensures accountability.
“It’s time for the Welsh Government to act decisively. Lives depend on it. Cancer patients in Wales deserve timely, effective, and compassionate care.”
ENDS
