Samuel Kurtz, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, has urged the Welsh Labour Government to make an urgent statement on the economic impact of excessive hospital waiting times on Wales’ economy.
With over 20,000 patients waiting more than two years to begin treatment and more than 170,000 waiting over a year, the consequences are severe. Over a quarter of those classed as economically inactive are unable to work due to long-term health conditions, many of which are exacerbated by delays in medical care.
Speaking outside the Senedd, Samuel Kurtz said:
"It is completely unacceptable that so many people are left waiting for essential treatment for such prolonged periods. One of my constituents was forced to give up full-time work after enduring an unreasonably long wait for a hip replacement on the NHS. Sadly, this is not an isolated case, it is happening across Wales."
"I have called on the Welsh Government to take immediate action to address this crisis. The impact is devastating, not only for individuals and their families but for the Welsh economy as a whole."
"With increasing numbers of people unable to work due to long-term ill health, we are losing valuable members of our workforce while placing additional strain on social support systems. This situation demands urgent intervention."
Mr Kurtz added:
"Wales cannot afford for this to become the norm. The Welsh Government, who have been responsible for health policy over 25 years, must make tackling NHS waiting lists a priority; ensuring that people get the treatment they need, return to good health, and regain their ability to contribute to the workforce and the wider economy."
