A former Health Minister has given his thoughts as to whether Manx Care is overspending or underfunded.
Onchan MHK Rob Callister held the role as health minister for seven weeks in 2022, before the Chief Minister decided a different approach was needed.
Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper then returned to the head of the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), a position he is still in.
Manx Care was forecasting an overspend of £16.8million, but since the announcement it has implemented a number of cuts in a desperate hope to save some cash.
Overspending or Underfunded?
Callister said: “Both the DHSC Minister and the Political Member have publicly stated that Manx Care is underfunded, a sentiment echoed by the Chief Executive of Manx Care.
“However, according to the Isle of Man’s budget reports, Manx Care assumed responsibility for the Island’s healthcare services on 1st April 2021, with a net budget of approximately £232 million, which included some funding for the DHSC.
“In contrast, the 2024/25 budget indicates that this net budget has now risen to £301 million.”
He explained: “This represents an increase of around £69 to £70 million since April 2021, a rise of approximately £1 million for every man, woman, and child living on the Isle of Man over the past three years.
Manx Care Funding
“We also have to consider that Tynwald Court approved targeted funding of about £20 million to reduce waiting lists in the aftermath of COVID-19.
“Additional funding was also allocated to enhance mental health services and tackle homelessness. Furthermore, the higher rate of personal income tax was increased from 20% to 22% in April, with the anticipated additional revenue—estimated at up to £20 million – ring fenced for the Island’s healthcare services.
“Despite this abundance of information, many questions remain regarding the allocation of funds to Manx Care.”
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