NI Assembly Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has outlined proposals to amalgamate the four health boards in Northern Ireland by April next year.

The Health Minister said he wanted a Regional Health Board providing a modern health service that put patients first.

Outlining his proposals the Minister said: "As a devolved Minister, I was not prepared to blindly follow plans for the future of our health and care system, laid down by Direct Rule Ministers for a Direct Rule administration. The previous proposals included the establishment of a huge Health Authority with nearly 2000 staff. It did not provide for clear accountability or exploit the many opportunities for active partnership with Local Government and other key stakeholders in the promotion of improved health and wellbeing. I could not agree with such proposals without giving them due consideration.

"I wanted to be satisfied that any new structures would be accountable and deliver the best standard of treatment and care for all the citizens of Northern Ireland, now and in the future.

"In taking time to consider the organisational changes, I consulted with patients and many staff working in the service. I am clear of what I want from our health service and what the new structures should deliver.

Mr McGimpsey said: "I want a modern health service which tackles health inequalities and puts patients at the heart of its thinking. I want efficient, forward looking, innovative, health and social care organisations, which deliver on targets and constantly strive to improve their performance for the benefits of patients. Quality and standards must continually be driven up without compromise. Patients must be given the opportunity to voice their concerns and be sure that they are listened to."

The key elements of the proposals are a new Regional Health and Social Care Board with up to 400 staff. It will focus on financial management, performance management and improvement and commissioning.

The Regional Board will replace the four existing Health and Social Services Boards with a smaller, more sharply focused Department.

Mr McGimpsey said: "Our health services must change if we are to meet the demands of a changing population, who rightly expect services delivered in their own communities and new life-saving drugs. We must focus on prevention, reduce reliance on hospitals and support people to live independently safely in their own homes for as long as possible.

He added: “I believe these new organisations will be at the forefront of delivering better quality services to the population. They will closely together, be more effective and efficient and promote stronger link between hospital and community services."

(SP)