Overhaul will see 7 specialised units replace HSE

THE HSE, described as a vital new structure for the health service just seven years ago, is to be replaced with seven speciality-specific directorates.

In a statement, Health Minister James Reilly said the move would pave the way for the eventual introduction of universal health insurance and a more transparent bureaucratic structure.

However, opposition parties have questioned if the change — which, following the health boards and the HSE, will be the third version of a nationwide health service structure since 2004 — is simply a cosmetic move and have called for clear alteration timelines to be published.

The seven task-specific directorates will focus on hospital care, primary care, mental health, children and family services, social care, public health and corporate services.

One of the individuals who will head up each of the sections — expected to be appointed from within the existing workforce — will act as director general of the health service.

Dr Reilly said the plan for the HSE “to cease to exist over time” was a vital part of plans for the introduction of universal health insurance.

“This fundamental alteration of the operation of the health services will see an organisational division between those assets charged with purchasing health/ social services and those assets charged with providing the health/social services.

“This in turn will allow the implementation of a full ‘money follows the patient’ system where providers are paid on the basis of services delivered. It is the view of Government that the interests of citizens in securing high quality health care in an effective, efficient manner will be best achieved in this way.”

The move was flagged in the Programme for Government and by the minister after he abolished the HSE board. In a further sign that the groundwork for the changes was taking place, the chairman of the HSE interim board, Dr Frank Dolphin, stepped down from his position last night at the minister’s request.

He will be replaced by the secretary general of the Department of Health and Children, Michael Scanlan.

* [e-mail]