Leader of the Welsh Conservatives and Clwyd West MS Darren Millar has called on the Welsh Government to address the “unacceptable” ophthalmology waiting lists, referring to a constituent who has been waiting to be seen for 98 weeks. 

Calling for a Statement on the desperate situation from the Cabinet Secretary for Health in today’s Business Statement in the Senedd, Darren said: 

“I was contacted by a constituent last week who has been waiting for an appointment in relation to glaucoma. He was referred from his local Specsavers to the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board in December 2023. 

“He heard nothing, absolutely nothing, until he chased the matter up with my office. We got in touch with the health board, and, unfortunately, we’ve been told that while he is on a list, having already waited for 55 weeks, he may have to wait a further 43 weeks before he is seen.

“Now, clearly, when people are at risk of losing their sight, with irreversible sight damage, that is unacceptable. 

“The Royal National Institute of Blind People have warned that people are coming to harm as a result of these waiting lists, as have the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, who have predicted an increase in demand by 30 to 40 per cent over the next 20 years.

“What action is the Welsh Government taking to address these issues? That's what we want to know, on behalf of our constituents, so I request a written update as soon as possible.” 

In her response, the Trefnydd (Business Manager) Jane Hutt MS said: 

“These are issues that you've brought to our attention today, and the Cabinet Secretary, and we have to make sure that we address this.”

Speaking after the meeting, Darren added: 

“It needs to be addressed urgently, no patient should have to wait 98 weeks, particularly when their eyesight is at risk!”