Jeremy Miles, 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.