Future of Healthcare Report must now be Implemented
Labour spokesperson on Health, and member of the Future of Healthcare Committee Alan Kelly TD has welcomed the publication of the final report, and called now for immediate steps towards implementation. The Government should immediately commit to providing the €3 billion transition fund so that the plan can meet it’s ambitious objectives to transform our health system.
Deputy Kelly said:
“The publication of this report is a watershed moment for the Irish healthcare system. This was a genuine attempt to provide a path forward and we want to ensure it is implemented. Since June last year our committee has worked diligently taking over 160 submissions, holding hearings with a broad range of stakeholders, and brining in the expertise necessary to provide full costings and an implementation plan.
“For example no one should wait longer than 12 weeks for an in-patient appointment, 10 weeks for an out-patient appointment and ten days for a diagnostic test.
“The Labour Party supports the recommendations in full, and having played an active role in the committee like many others, my desire is now to see it implemented in full.
“That will require political and financial commitment from the Government as with near cross party political support, this provides an opportunity to achieve a long desired single tier healthcare system.
“With the proposed sale of 25% of AIB, the expected €3 billion proceeds could also be committed to the Transition Fund that is needed for capital investment in diagnostics, and improved training.”