McGimpsey meets western board staff to discuss health reforms

The Health Minister has continued his round of consultation meetings with staff on health reforms.

Speaking as he visited staff at the Western Health and Social Services Board in Londonderry, Michael McGimpsey said: “I want to hear as many views as possible over the next few weeks. These reforms are important because they will bring about real improvements in health for everyone living here and also make it easier for you to do your work.

“I want to create a modern, responsive and forward looking health service which is efficient, tackles health inequalities and puts patients at the heart of its thinking.”

Addressing concerns about job security, the Minister said: “I will make every possible effort to avoid compulsory redundancies, to keep valuable skills and experience within the health and social care system in Northern Ireland, to minimise costs and provide value for money.

“These reforms are about your future. I would encourage those with an interest in these issues to take part in the consultation and help me achieve my goal of establishing a world-class health and social care service for the 21st century.”

The Minister will meet with staff from across various health and social care organisations before the end of the consultation on 12 May 2008.

Notes to Editors:

1. The key elements of the Minister’s proposals are:

• A new Regional Health and Social Care Board to focus on financial management, performance management and commissioning;
• A new multi-professional Regional Public Health Agency;
• Five Local Commissioning Groups;
• A smaller more sharply focussed Department;
• A common services organisation that will provide a range of support functions for the health and social care service;
• Reinforcing and strengthening of the role of the Health and Social Services Councils;
• Increased democratisation through local government representation on key bodies and improved partnership working.

2. A full copy of the consultation document is available on the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety website.

Copies can also be obtained by contacting:-

3. The consultation ends on 12 May 2008.

4. Press enquiries to the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 90520575. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.