The strategy was developed by the Department in partnership with Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations and was informed by extensive research into problems experienced by people using health and social services and by views from a wide range of stakeholders.
Launching the strategy the Minister said “When I took up the role of Health Minister I vowed to make health and social care in Northern Ireland a world class service - one which is fair and accessible to everyone. This means services have to be tailored to meet the needs of the people who use them – they need to be patient-centred.
“Regrettably access problems to health and social care services are still being experienced by hard to reach sections of our communities and health inequalities still persist. The strategy I am launching today aims to change this and already it has prompted a review of disabled peoples’ access to health and social care services, the development of better quality translation services, and the production of a healthcare information booklet in English and 13 different languages for minority ethnic and migrant worker communities.
"I want to help people to become involved in decisions affecting their health and improve their experiences of the services that we provide.
“Getting these right is at the heart of providing a service which is focused on the patient and treats everyone with respect, dignity and fairness. I am confident that this strategy and its supporting actions will help us provide the type of service that people have a right to expect and deserve – one which promotes equality, human rights and good relations for all.”
Notes to Editors:
- The strategy and action plan was developed by the Department in collaboration with the Health and Social Care family of organisations including input from a wide range of stakeholders.
- The need for this strategy and action plan has been driven by the existence of health inequalities; by equality of access problems; by population changes and by equality and human rights legislation, in particular Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 and the Human Rights Act 1998. This strategy and action plan will contribute to reducing inequalities and providing equitable access to health and social services.
- The strategy along with a summary report of the consultation responses are available on the Department’s website. Printed copies of the strategy are being sent to some organisations.
- For further information please contact DHSSPS Information Office on 02890 520575. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
