Outgoing health director delivers parting blow to Island's politicians

Shaun Stacey posts scathing review of state of health and social care

An outgoing health director has hit out at the Island's politicians for interfering with the health service.

Shaun Stacey, who is leaving his role as interim director of operations after two years, posted on LinkedIn that "politics should set the destination".

"It shouldn’t keep grabbing the steering wheel, shouting directions and then blaming the driver when the car ends up in a ditch.

"You cannot promise everything, fund something less and then act surprised when services struggle."

He's praised some of his Manx Care colleagues, saying: "I’ve worked with some brilliant people providing exceptional care in an incredibly strained system."

However, Mr Stacey adds: "I’ve also been surprised by the reluctance of some senior clinicians to embrace modern clinical practice.

"You cannot demand modern healthcare while defending historic clinical practice.

"And continuous professional development only works if some of the development is actually continuous."

Mr Stacey has also addressed cultural issues within the health service, saying: "Culture matters. Hierarchy matters. Entrenched behaviours matter. And attitudes towards people perceived as “different” matter too.

"After 43 years, I found some of this genuinely uncomfortable.

"The tragedy is that Islanders still struggle to access routine and emergency care despite significant public investment.

"Accountability is a curious thing."

Reflecting on his time in the role, he says: "I came here as a clinician, manager and leader hoping to make a difference.

"I think I made a small one.

"There is much more to do."

His post ends: "Good luck, Isle of Man.

"I genuinely hope you get the health and care system you deserve."

Manx Radio has approached the Department of Health and Social Care for comment.

See Mr Stacey's full LinkedIn post HERE.