Executive determined to see a transformation in health and social care services

This Executive is determined to transform Health and Social Care to ensure world class services for all our people.

This Executive is determined to transform health and social care to ensure world class services for all our people.

That was the message delivered by First Minister the Rt. Hon. Arlene Foster and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, after Executive Ministers unanimously approved far-reaching plans to re-shape health and social care.

Today’s Executive meeting heard Health Minister, Michelle O’Neill set out the way forward, in response to an expert panel report on the challenges facing the current system.

Panel chairman Professor Rafael Bengoa briefed Ministers on its findings.

The First Minister, Arlene Foster said: “We are very grateful to Professor Bengoa and his colleagues for their work. Their report sets out a frank assessment of the existing situation and the need for change.

“It represents a challenge to politicians, but it is a challenge this Executive is going to meet head on.

“We are committed to increasing our substantial investment in the health service year in and year out. However, it is clear the present configuration of services needs to change to ensure the best outcomes for patients.”

The deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness said: “This is a time for leadership and this Executive is going to provide it. Change has to happen and the only question is whether it will happen in a controlled, planned fashion or unfold out of control. There is only one responsible choice to make.

“We need to show leadership and take the decisions necessary to provide a health service which empowers staff and directs the resources available in the most effective way.

“Today is a powerful example of the Executive working together. We will deliver a Fresh Start for the health service.”

Health Minister Michelle O’Neill added: “Radical transformation is needed across the health and social care system if we are to meet the needs of current and future generations.  We must move beyond simply managing illness and instead prioritise prevention and early intervention to support people to live longer, healthier lives and help to reduce demand on our already over stretched services.

“With the support of the Executive and working with those who deliver and use services we can proactively, design and deliver planned and managed change across the system.”

Notes to editors: 

1. The Health Minister’s 10 year vision statement Health and Wellbeing 2026: Delivering Together is available for download via the DoH website.
2. The Full Panel report and Executive Summary are available to download via the DoH website.
3. Media enquiries to The Executive Office press office on 028 9037 8256. Out of office hours, please contact the duty press office via pager number 07623 974 383 and your call will be returned.
4. Follow us on Twitter @niexecutive.

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