Select committee launches inquiry on cross-border healthcare arrangements between England and Wales

The committee said: “NHS patients from all across Wales and parts of England often access healthcare across the border to use services closer to home, to receive treatment not available locally or to access specialist care.

“However, with health a devolved policy area, evidence previously heard by the committee has shown that patients can face challenges, such as with accessing medical records, transport and hospital referrals.”

The aim of the inquiry is to understand what the most pressing issues are for those accessing cross-border healthcare, and how the UK Government works with the Welsh Government to ensure cross-border arrangements run smoothly. 

The committee said it would explore how the use of data and digitalisation could improve patients’ experience, as well as if Welsh language provision is sufficient in cross-border healthcare. 

The inquiry will also look at how reforms such as the abolition of NHS England and the UK Government’s 10 Year Health Plan will impact the cross-border health system. 

Ruth Jones MP, Chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee, said: “People may move across the border to see their GP, visit a local service or access specialist care. Our inquiry will be looking at any barriers that currently exist to accessing cross-border healthcare and whether all those responsible for providing services are working together to deliver the best outcomes for patients.”