The first steps in a major transformation of the Island’s health and social care system are set to be taken, in line with far-reaching recommendations for change set out in a landmark review.
The final report of the Independent Health and Social Care Review authored by Sir Jonathan Michael has been unanimously approved by Tynwald. The report includes 26 recommendations to transform the way health and care services are provided, to ensure the Island’s population has a high quality, clinically and financially stable system in the long term.
In the review, Sir Jonathan modelled the impact of rising costs and demand for services to the year 2035/36, concluding that the current system is unsustainable. The final report set out funding options and recommended the creation of a new organisation, possibly styled Manx Care, to deliver or commission services to the public. This would be separate from but accountable to the body that sets policy and priorities.
Chief Minister Howard Quayle said:
‘I’m pleased that Tynwald has given its backing to Sir Jonathan Michael’s final report. Now it’s time to get on with the work. Transforming health and care services won’t be easily or quickly achieved. We are looking at a five year time frame for the overall transformation programme, but hope to deliver on some aspects more swiftly.
The Chief Minister added:
‘Work has begun on plotting the way forward, and health and care transformation will be on the agenda at this week’s Council of Ministers to determine the next steps based on Sir Jonathan’s report. We must seize this golden opportunity by acting swiftly as this is not an opportunity that we are going to miss.
‘This administration is committed to getting the transformation programme up and running, and to start delivering on the review’s recommendations. Sir Jonathan has signalled he may be willing to provide ongoing advice and scrutiny on the implementation, and for that I thank him, as his independent views will be immensely beneficial going forward.’
A motion asking Tynwald to support the final report was tabled by Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan who said:
‘I too am pleased the report has been accepted by Tynwald members, who can be assured that Treasury is committed to resourcing the transformation. Today we have committed to substantial reform, making this an exciting opportunity to bring huge benefit for future generations. By adopting the recommendations we are taking a major step towards ensuring high quality health and care services that are financially sustainable.’
Health and Social Care Minister David Ashford said:
‘We may look back on this vote as a turning point, when first steps were taken in a once-in-a-generation overhaul of the nation’s health and social care system. It paves the way for us to achieve our vision to be the best small Island health and care system, putting the service user at the centre of everything we do.
‘The transformation must be committed to involving staff in the process from the start, as without their support it will not succeed. There must also be significant engagement with other providers of care, as they are crucial to realising the delivery model envisaged in the report.’
Policy and Reform Minister Chris Thomas, said:
‘Implementation will need careful application of human, digital and other resources but the benefits will be immense and long-term. Working together in health and care, indeed across the whole public service, is essential and this transformation requires it.’
In accordance with the final report’s recommendation, the Department of Health and Social Care, Treasury and Cabinet Office will be instructed by the Council of Ministers to ensure the transformation programme is implemented, and the programme will be led by the Chief Secretary, Will Greenhow. In addition, reports on the progress of the transformation programme will be submitted to the Council of Ministers quarterly and to Tynwald annually.
