The DHSC is seeking additional funding to cover increased costs for the non-urgent Patient Transfer Air Service.
The issue was highlighted in the Manx Care Operating Plan 2025–26, which identified the service as one of several new requirements not currently funded within its budget.
In response to a written Tynwald question from Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper, Minister Claire Christian, said: “The Department is working with both Treasury and the Department for Enterprise (DfE), given the link between the provision of patient transfer services and the broader approach to strategic air services.”
Unfunded
She added: “A funding request is being brought to Treasury in September in respect of the currently unfunded cost of the Non-Urgent Patient Transfer Air Service arising from the recent competitive tender process, as highlighted in the Manx Care Operating Plan 2025.”
The service, which facilitates essential off-island patient travel for medical treatment, faces financial pressure due to increased tender prices.
Without additional funding, Manx Care has previously warned that difficult decisions may be required to constrain services to operate within its allocated budget.
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