Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 February 2018
222. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the areas in respect of which health expenditure, when compared with other OECD countries, is deemed insufficient here; if other countries have utilised a different model or found a more effective and efficient way in which to deal with the issue of delivering health facilities; if obvious discrepancies have been identified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6616/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, making comparisons between health systems can be very difficult, as no two systems are alike. However, it is clear to us all that we will need to make significant and sustainable investments and reforms across the health service if we are to meet the impending challenges of a growing and aging population. This was the key finding of the recently published Capacity Review. I have confirmed my commitment to investment in new capacity in the years ahead, but this must be matched by a comprehensive reform programme for our health services.
The Sláintecare report provides the direction of travel for this. There is now a level of consensus and support for the vision and strategic direction outlined in the report that is unprecedented. It is my intention to harness this and to work with colleagues across the political spectrum and with all stakeholders to move forward on a programme of health reform that will benefit all of our citizens. We want a health service that provides better and timelier access to health service, has better patient outcomes and also one that deliver value for money. To do this, there is a need for a fundamental change in how and where we deliver services. In line with the Slaintecare report's recommendations, this will centre around the development of more comprehensive and accessible community-based care services.
My Department is preparing an implementation plan in response to the Slaintecare report, which I hope to bring to Government shortly. In addition, the Government has already given its approval to move ahead with the establishment of a Sláintecare Programme Office in the Department of Health. Recruitment of the Executive Director is underway and I expect the process to complete in April .
