Bernard Durkan
Question:892. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the source of the indication to impede the regionalisation features of Sláintecare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51260/21]
View answerTuesday, 19 October 2021
Questions (892)
Written answers
The Department of Health is actively progressing the delivery of a Business Case for RHA Implementation at present. Substantial work has been undertaken over the past several months in progressing regional health areas (RHAs) within the Department of Health. Research into international best practice has been completed. Policy options have been drafted. Consultation with stakeholders including patients, clinicians, policymakers, and hospital group and community healthcare organisations officials has taken place. An advisory group of clinicians and patient representatives is being established to inform the implementation process.
In Q2 2021, given the immense pressures the health service experienced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and cyberattack, the HSE asked me to pause implementation of RHAs for a period of time. In recognition that structural and functional change is time consuming, I agreed to that request in order that HSE senior officials could devote their time to managing the vaccination rollout and cyberattack recovery.