{
  "abstract": "Introduction Improvements in diagnostic technology and the development of new treatments mean it is vital patients have timely access to neurological services. The GIRFT report found the number of neurologists across England was 1 per 79,000, with significant geographical variation.Methods The National Strategic Clinical Network for Neurological Conditions in Wales was established in 2024. Establishing the current neurology workforce was its first priority and key to planning neurological services in Wales.Results Full responses were received from each health board in Wales. The number of whole time equivalent (WTE) neurologists was 41.11, or 1 per 76,974 of population. There are 53.1 WTE neurology specialist nurses in Wales, or 1 per 58,976 of the population. The majority specialise in epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. 50% of the South Wales neurologists plan to retire within the next 10 years.Discussion This survey has provided valuable data on neurological services in Wales. The number of neurologists per head of population is similar to England, with significant geographical variation, and well below the numbers in other high-income countries. Urgent workforce planning is needed to ensure that the service continues to expand to meet the need of patients with neurological conditions in Wales.robert.powell@wales.nhs.uk",
  "authors": [
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Swansea Bay UHB",
        "Wales NHS Executive"
      ],
      "name": "Powell Rob"
    },
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Wales NHS Executive"
      ],
      "name": "Lewis Ellie"
    },
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Wales NHS Executive"
      ],
      "name": "Martin Elizabeth"
    },
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Wales NHS Executive"
      ],
      "name": "Howell Nick"
    },
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Wales NHS Executive"
      ],
      "name": "Oliver Joanne"
    }
  ],
  "title": "43 Wales neurological services and workforce survey 2024",
  "uid": "0fdcbcd0-c8bf-5b7f-bb73-5154c9760938"
}