Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 September 2012
1818. Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the hospital groups programme that was outlined by his Department on 11 June 2012, specifically the plans that have been made to further this project; the hospitals that are to be grouped together; the expected efficiencies that this programme will realise; the timetable for when these changes will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39055/12]
Amharc ar fhreagra1819. Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the progress made by a person (details supplied) and the special delivery unit in introducing the hospital group's project plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39056/12]
Amharc ar fhreagra1820. Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health when he envisages that the establishment of hospital groups will commence; the timescale he is working towards for the establishment of full independent hospital trusts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39057/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1818 to 1820, inclusive, together.
The creation of hospital groups and trusts is at the heart of the Government’s reforms of the acute hospital sector. It is an important stepping stone towards the introduction of universal health insurance which is the ultimate destination of the Government's reform programme. As a first step on that journey, hospitals will be aligned within groups on an administrative basis. Each Group will have a single consolidated management team with responsibility for performance and outcomes, within a clearly defined budget and employment ceiling.
In June 2012, the Minister announced the appointment of Professor John R Higgins to work with the Special Delivery Unit (SDU) in the role of Chair of a Strategic Board to assist the Department of Health in the design and establishment of Hospital Groups. As Chair, he will have a key role in progressing the creation of Hospital Groups initially and, ultimately, Independent Hospital Trusts. The Project Group led by Professor John Higgins has carried out a comprehensive consultation process with all acute hospitals and other key advocacy groups which have requested an opportunity to be consulted. In addition, a significant number of submissions have been received by the Project Group. The consultation process has continued through the summer and will conclude later this month.
Criteria for the formation of Hospital Groups and proposed groups arising from these criteria will be identified by the Project Group. A Strategic Board is being established to consider the findings and proposals of the Project Group prior to their submission to the Minister and, subsequently, to Government. The submission to Government is planned to take place before the end of the year. The Board will also have an ongoing role in overseeing the implementation of proposals in relation to Hospital Groups approved by Government. It is scheduled to have its first meeting in early October.
