The Government Programme An Action Programme for the Millennium gives priorities which includes a commitment to initiate comprehensive value for money audits for the health services. This process will complement initiatives identified in Delivering a Better Government where a programme of expenditure reviews in my Department is to be carried out over a three year period beginning in 1997. I have not yet had an opportunity of considering the detailed arrangements for the conduct of the audits.
The Department's strategy document Shaping a Healthier Future published in 1994 and reinforced by the recent strategy statement also highights the need to evaluate economy, efficiency, and increasing effectiveness in the provision of a quality health service. One such area receiving particular attention in the Department relates to value for money and particularly the materials management function. Structures are being put in place shortly to ensure that a more efficient materials management programme is delivered.
The Deputy will also be aware of the enhanced role of the Public Accounts Committee and the Comptroller and Auditor General under legislation passed in 1993. The Comptroller and Auditor General now has a role in auditing health boards and he also has a value for money remit. He has already completed a number of value for money studies in the health services.
