Chief Minister must answer for healthcare failings - IOM TUC

It follows debate on independent review of Island's health service this week

The Island's health service remains unfit for purpose and the time has come for the Chief Minister to explain why the system delivered under his leadership has not met the promises made.

That's the damning verdict from the Trades Union Council following debate in Tynwald this week of an independent review into the Island's current health and social care model by the Mersey Internal Audit Agency.

The IOMTUC says problems in the system are systemic, well-known and long-standing. Front line staff continue to hold the service together, but the system they work in remains confused, unstable and over-stretched.

The MIAA report concluded that the size and scale of the Island, along with its governance and funding structures, have limited the ability of Manx Care to fully function as an independent arms length body.

Manx Care was established in 2021 following the Sir Jonathan Michael Report, which was commissioned by the then Treasury Minister, Alfred Cannan and published in 2019.

According to the IOMTUC Mr. Cannan committed to 'a health and care service that is financially sustainable, properly governed and fit for purpose for the future'.

As a result it says he must now explain why the reforms he promised have not materialised.

Responding to the IOMTUC the Department of Health and Social Care says it would like to thank the Isle of Man Trades Union Council for engaging on this important topic, adding it will continue working towards returning to Tynwald in February with a full response and implementation plan.