Vol. 563 No. 1
452 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will carry out an audit of the health service with a view to identifying deficiencies in terms of delivery to the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7415/03]
In 2001, the national health strategy was launched which is a comprehensive strategic plan for the health system. One of the main conclusions in the health strategy was that while the health system has served us well in many respects, some significant concerns remain. These include the need for stronger co-ordination and integration of functions and services; greater consistency in access to services and delivery of services throughout the country; and greater clarity around levels of decision-making in the full range of organisations (particularly, vis-à-vis the role of the Department) and the requirement for whole system effectiveness.
Action 114 of the strategy was intended to support organisation development in helping to clarify roles and co-ordinate the work of different organisations. It was for this reason that prospectus strategy consultants were contracted in June of 2002 to complete an audit of structures and functions of the health system. The terms of reference included consideration of the structures and functions of both health boards/authority and other specialist, advisory, regulatory and executive agencies under my aegis. The terms of reference also require the prospectus to make recommendations to improve corporate governance arrangements in the health system generally. This includes consideration of interactions between all agencies who play a pivotal role in the system, including the Department of Health and Children. The outcomes sought are to ensure that the structures in the system are the most appropriate and responsive to meet current and future service needs; constitute an adequate framework for overall governance of the health system; achieve an effective integration of services across all parts of the system; adequately represent the views of consumers in the planning and delivery of services; focus on the principles of equity, accountability, quality and people-centredness and the national goals of the strategy.
The project is being overseen by a steering group. Drafts of the report have been provided to the steering group and further work is being completed by the consultants. On completion, I will be bringing the report to the Government for decision. Once decisions have been made by Government, I anticipate that the report will be published in full and made available generally.
