I am pleased to introduce the third NHS Wales Annual Quality Statement, highlighting just a fraction of the excellent work that organisations in NHS Wales did, and the challenges we faced, in 2016. As NHS Wales Chief Executive, my job is to look across Wales and ensure all the component parts work together to provide a seamless service on behalf of patients. I think in order to do this it helps to take a step back and look at the whole picture. This document is an opportunity to think about things that have been successful and to share good practice, but also to consider
areas in which we can improve.

Whether you live in Aberystwyth or Anglesey, Builth Wells or Barry you want to know that you will receive the same high quality health and care services. We have to design services that support the needs of patients and those caring for them, which operate without hindrance from the organisational boundaries that have traditionally defined the NHS in Wales.

Those working in the service are rightly proud of the work they do. More than just the work, it’s about the principles and values of the NHS: a focus on care and quality standards, treating each patient as an individual, acting as an advocate for patients and carers, being part of a broader team and having pride and ambition to do more and better. In essence, it’s about a clear sense of professional pride and commitment to patients and the NHS.