Big improvements at health watchdog, says Mark Drakeford

HIW's role is to inspect and regulate all healthcare in Wales

An NHS inspection body has made big improvements since it came under fire from AMs, the health minister has said.

The assembly's health committee called for a fundamental review of Healthcare Inspectorate Wales (HIW) last year.

It has been under the spotlight recently, after another inquiry revealed the mistreatment of patients at a north Wales mental health unit.

HIW has said it failed to detect and respond to concerns early enough at Glan Clwyd Hospital's Tawel Fan ward.

The unit closed in 2013.

During an assembly debate on Wednesday, Mark Drakeford said HIW was carrying out more inspections, communicating with the public better and publishing its findings more quickly.

He told AMs: "I'm sure members when they have seen the work that HIW has conducted since the committee's report was published - and they will see that in its annual report which will be published in July of this year - will see that there is a considerably improved position since the committee reported."

Whistle blowing

Proposals for changes to the law will be published in a green paper before next year's assembly election.

They will respond to a recommendation that HIW becomes legally independent from the Welsh government.

Mr Drakeford also said he would consider further reforms for NHS staff who blow the whistle on poor standards of care.

Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Kirsty Williams said: "We need an inspectorate that can say 'This service isn't good enough. It's going into special measures', and I don't have to worry about what a politician may or may not have to say about it."