Children’s Health Ireland to Merge with HSE by 2027

Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) will officially merge with the Health Service Executive (HSE) by the year 2027, as announced by the Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, today. This integration aims to enhance pediatric healthcare services in Ireland, particularly with the forthcoming opening of the National Children’s Hospital Ireland, which is expected to serve as a central hub in the pediatric care network.

Minister MacNeill emphasized the importance of planning for a unified approach to pediatric healthcare. “As we move towards the opening of the National Children’s Hospital Ireland, we need to plan for integrated pediatric healthcare and the policy direction for Children’s Health Ireland,” she stated. The new hospital will link with regional pediatric units predominantly operated by the HSE, further solidifying a comprehensive care framework.

While the transition is set to take several years, it is understood that there will be no immediate impact on the care of children currently under CHI. Their day-to-day services will remain unaffected during this period, ensuring continuity for young patients.

Legislative Changes Required for Full Integration

The integration process will necessitate changes to current legislation, meaning that the full implementation of this merger will take time. The aim is to fully unify the two entities by 2027. Currently, CHI operates three children’s hospitals located in Crumlin, Temple Street, and Tallaght.

This decision comes in light of recent scrutiny surrounding CHI, particularly related to waiting lists for spinal surgeries and scoliosis treatments. Minister MacNeill noted that CHI will also oversee the operation of the National Children’s Hospital, which is scheduled to open next year.

“The background of CHI was the integration of three very different pediatric hospitals with a view to moving to a single dedicated specialist pediatric hospital,” she explained. “We are very close to that hospital being delivered and operational, and it is therefore time to further integrate pediatric care formally into the HSE.”

Focus on Quality and Continuity of Care

The Minister highlighted her commitment to ensuring that the quality and continuity of care provided to children remain paramount throughout this transition. “What I want to ensure is the quality and continuity of care provided to our children and the opening of what will be a transformative children’s hospital,” she added.

As the integration unfolds, stakeholders in the healthcare sector will be watching closely, anticipating how these changes will improve pediatric care in Ireland and enhance the overall healthcare landscape for children.