Proposals to strengthen the management and governance structure at Noble’s Hospital have been approved by the Council of Ministers following an independent report on the effectiveness of current arrangements.
The report recommends a new framework with a Hospital Managing Director reporting to a Governing Board, which would oversee the operation of the hospital and be accountable to the Minister. It is intended that the overall effect of these and related changes will be broadly cost neutral.
Commissioned by the Chief Minister with the support of the Department of Health, the report from Beamans management consultants concludes that the hospital should be given clearer authority and responsibility for day-to-day delivery of services, leaving the Department to set the strategic direction.
It says a hospital providing 365 day, 24/7 acute health care, with well over 1,000 staff and annual running costs of £80 million, needs executive leadership instead of being managed as a division of a Department.
Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK commented:
‘As the Beamans report recognises, the professionalism and dedication of staff at all levels in Noble’s is impressive, and they provide a high standard of service and care for the people of the Island.
‘But it is clear that the pressures on the management have been considerable, and the situation has not been helped by a structure that is no longer adequate to meet modern demands. As Chief Minister I am pleased to have been able to add my support to the Department’s work to address issues around Noble’s Hospital, and to find a way forward which should help to reinforce public confidence.’
Health Minister David Anderson MHK said:
‘I welcome the Beamans report and its recommendations which will help to further strengthen the management of Noble’s Hospital and support staff in delivering services in an increasingly challenging environment. The proposed board structure, which will include non-executive directors, will provide further involvement by lay people in the strategic oversight and governance of the hospital, which I am sure will enhance public confidence.’
For more information please see the Beamans report on Noble’s Hospital.
