Health minister defends new health strategy
The Minister for Health, Michéal Martin is defending his decision not to radically alter the health service as part of the 10 year health strategy unveiled yesterday.
It has been confirmed that an expert 'value for money' report compiled for the minister recommended a review of the size of the boards and how they operate.
The minister said an independent review will be carried out and that a range of options will be considered.
However, Mr Martin clearly stated that abolishing the health boards was not an option as there needs to be local area delivery.
Amalgamation of some health boards could be an option, but the minister does not want to begin this process until an evaluation of the Eastern Health Regional Authority, which split into three, has been completed.
