Health Minister Questions Value of Increased €27 Billion Funding

The Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, expressed uncertainty regarding whether the State has realized maximum value from significant funding increases for the health service in recent years. In a recent statement, she highlighted that the health service is set to receive over €27 billion in 2026, marking a substantial increase from €14 billion in 2014. The Minister emphasized the need to ensure that the investment translates into tangible benefits for taxpayers and patients.

Over the past five years, there has been considerable expansion within the health service, including the addition of 28,000 new staff and an increase in available beds. Despite these advancements, Carroll MacNeill noted that the health service has not fully capitalized on the investment made to date. She remarked, “I am not sure we have got the best value that is available out of the investment so far.”

Contractual Changes and Consultant Utilization

The Minister pointed out that a significant milestone in 2023 was the introduction of a public-only consultant contract. This contract enables consultants to work regular hours, including evenings and weekends, rather than being on call. Approximately 66 percent of consultants are now operating under this new arrangement, and Carroll MacNeill insists it is essential that every available hour is utilized effectively.

Despite the growth in the number of consultants, there has been a decline in the number of appointments offered per consultant. “We should be seeing more appointments in our health service for the number of consultants that we have invested in,” she stated. She acknowledged that while improvements have been made, such as increasing outpatient clinics in Galway from two to three daily, overall efficiency must be enhanced.

Addressing Regional Disparities

Carroll MacNeill highlighted concerning disparities in access to services across different regions. For instance, in the midwest, 98 percent of urgent breast cancer referrals are seen on time, compared to just 39 percent in the west and northwest. Audiology waiting times also vary significantly, with 74 percent of patients in the southwest meeting the 52-week target, while only 48 percent are seen in Dublin and the midlands.

“This level of variation is unacceptable and avoidable. We must do better,” Carroll MacNeill asserted. She emphasized her priorities for the upcoming year, which include ensuring regional equity in service access, reducing waiting times, and delivering safe, high-quality care.

The Minister also announced a new agreement with community pharmacists, which is expected to enhance patient access to healthcare. By early next year, potentially by St. Patrick’s Day, patients may be able to visit pharmacies for diagnoses and prescriptions for common conditions at a lower cost than traditional GP visits.

As the health service continues to adapt to new challenges, Carroll MacNeill’s focus on maximizing the value of investments and addressing regional inconsistencies reflects a commitment to improving healthcare outcomes across the State.