The Health Minister Claire Christian MHK says that changes to services within the health service are not the same as cost cuts.
This morning the Minister answered question in the House of Keys following the news that non-urgent procedures in Liverpool and Manchester have been paused until March 31, 2025.
She said: “Changes to services are not the same as reductions or costs cuts, and to confuse the matters is irresponsible.”
Her statement was in response to Douglas East MHK Joney Faragher who asked the Minister if “all avenues to save money have been exhausted” and if health cuts are “likely”.
Service Changes
The Health Minister said: “We believe that reshaping the way way appointments are delivered is a good basis for reform by having more oversight and control of care that is delivered off island that is good for patients.
“But also helps the cost, given the increase of the overall cost of island care over the recent years.”
She added: “The budget has not been approved, and the work to deliver the mandate and operating plan is still ongoing.
“As I said in my statement, in order to deliver within the budget, we need to look at how we deliver our services to ensure that they are efficient and sustainable for the future. And this work is still ongoing.
“But what we have to be clear on to the public is that changes to services are not the same as reductions or costs cuts, and to confuse the matters is irresponsible.
“For example, we have been open that we want to see services moved out of the hospital where safe and appropriate to do so, so that patients can receive services in their community.
“This is a change to service delivery, but is seeking to provide to improve patient services and manage demand within the hospital.”
You can listen to the exchange between the Ms Faragher and the Health Minister below:
2 Comments