, Cabinet Secretary for Health
and Social Care: I can confirm that the Welsh Government
has accepted in principle all the recommendations set out in the
Leng Review.
The Leng Review was commissioned in November 2024 by the
Secretary of State for Health and Social Care in response to
concerns surrounding the contribution of physician associates and
anaesthesia associates in multidisciplinary teams. The final
report, published on 16 July 2025 draws on extensive stakeholder
engagement, literature reviews, and patient feedback.
While the review sets our recommendations for England, the report
emphasises the need for a consistent, UK-wide approach to
implementation to ensure clarity and confidence for both staff
and patients.
An implementation group will fully assess the impact of the
recommendations for the NHS in Wales and to determine the most
effective approach to their implementation and
operationalisation. We are committed to working collaboratively,
and further engagement with stakeholders is planned as part of
the implementation phase.
The Chief Medical Officer and Deputy Chief Medical Officer have
written to employers and system leaders in Wales encouraging the
early adoption of the updated terminology ‘physician assistants'
and ‘physician assistants in anaesthesia'. It is for the UK
Government to formally update these professional titles in law.
I would like to thank Professor Leng and the review team for
their work, and all those who contributed evidence and insight
during the process.
This statement is being issued during recess to keep Members
informed. Should Members wish me to make a further statement or
to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be
happy to do so.
