Tánaiste hires experts in bid to raise private cash for health strategy

THE Government has hired a group of experts to devise a strategy to encourage private investors into the health service as part of its radical plans to solve the A&E crisis.

Health Minister Mary Harney confirmed Prospectus Consultants have been hired to develop a national blueprint for expanding the role of the private sector in the provision of healthcare.

The Tánaiste believes such investment is vital to alleviate pressure on acute hospital beds and A&E units. It would also allow the development of primary care through private financing of one-stop shops where patients could access a variety of services under one roof.