The health measures in the new Programme for Government need a “detailed implementation plan”, with a corresponding commitment to funding, according to IMO President Dr Denis McCauley.
Dr McCauley congratulated the new Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill on her appointment and said that the union looked forward to meeting her soon, “to start work on bringing the aspirations of the recently announced Programme for Government to reality”.
“However, it is important the new Minister appreciates that we must very quickly see a detailed implementation plan with a corresponding commitment to funding. Doctors and other healthcare professionals are struggling to deliver care in environments that are under-resourced, under-staffed and under pressure.”
Dr McCauley, who is also a GP, said that patients around the country are facing problems accessing care in general practice, mental health services, acute hospital services or community services.
“The IMO has long campaigned for adequate capacity, a funded medical workforce plan and investment in general practice – we will be seeking to engage with Minister Carroll MacNeill on the implementation of these targets and a realistic multi-annual funding programme for our health services that meets the needs of the population and allows doctors to deliver timely care.”
Last week the IMO criticised the HSE National Service Plan 2025 (NSP) claiming it confirms an “effective recruitment freeze remains in place”. The Organisation also warned the NSP will see “no significant increase in capacity with just 300 beds planned for the coming year”.
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