NHS Wales shortage of paediatricians ‘risk to children’s health’

A body of doctors has reported that if a shortage of specialists is not adequately addressed, children’s health could be placed at risk.

According to the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), an increase of 42% (at least 73 consultant paediatricians) is needed in Wales in order to deliver the right level of care.

RCPCH officer for Wales and paediatrician Dr David Tuthill, said the report showed how serious the problem was, adding “Failure to take the necessary steps now will be to the detriment of our children now and in the future.”

The biggest shortfall is in general paediatrics, which accounted for well over 50 per cent of the extra recruitment needed. Concerns were also raised about recruitment in rural areas, as well as specialist and community paediatrics.

A spokesperson from the Welsh government said that their recent national and international recruitment campaign has included a focus on paediatric trainees, and said that its figures for 2015-2018 showed an increase in paediatric consultants of 18.9%.

They added “We are now investing record levels in training and education for NHS Wales and have more training places than ever before.”

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Posted by Tony May, Partner/head of Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

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