Full bibliography

Study topic
Evaluation of the Community HealthPathways (CHP) platform across Wales to assess its impact on referral quality, clinical decision-making, and healthcare system efficiency.

Study type
Mixed-methods evaluation including quantitative referral data analysis, qualitative surveys and interviews, usability testing, and literature review.

Key findings

• Estimated potential cost savings of up to £15 million annually if referral rates across Wales align with Cardiff and Vale.
• CHP is a digital platform providing locally adapted clinical pathways to support evidence-based decision-making in primary care.
• Implementation across Wales has been uneven; Cardiff and Vale UHB shows the highest engagement and longest use.
• Surveyed healthcare professionals reported improved confidence, efficiency, and patient communication, though usability issues and lack of awareness remain barriers.
• Case studies suggest CHP may reduce inappropriate referrals and improve referral quality in specific pathways (e.g. headache, chest pain, carpal tunnel).
• Usability scores were below average; users found the interface unclear and navigation cognitively demanding.
• CHP is valued for its potential to standardise care and support collaboration across primary and secondary care, but its strategic purpose needs clearer communication.
• Recommendations include improved training, governance, integration with clinical systems, and ongoing evaluation.