A number of key legislations in Wales such as the Social Services and Well-being Act, Well-being of Future Generations Act, Health and Social Care (Quality and Engagement) (Wales) Act 2020 and strategic documents including A Healthier Wales provide strategic directions for organisations providing health and social care services in Wales. There is a pressing need to transform the health and care system, of which primary care is a key component, using an approach that prioritises primary and secondary prevention.
A cluster brings together all local services involved in health and care across a geographical area, typically serving a population between 25,000 and 100,000. Cluster working is community orientated, needs based approach, using all local services and resources to achieve the greatest benefit for the local population. Professionals collaboratives should work together to understand local needs and to develop solutions that are effective in the local context.
Depending on the local and regional contextual factors, plans or care pathways with the aim of improving oral health of the population could be made at cluster, pan cluster, health board or Regional Partnership Board (RPB) footprint. The key objectives of any local or regional plans and pathways should include reduction in oral health inequalities and inequity in access to outcome focussed dental care.
Last updated: 23/07/24