Government launches review into healthcare governance

Follows Tynwald resolution passed last year

Government has launched a review into the governance arrangements of health and social care services in the Isle of Man.

It follows the passing of a resolution that was passed in Tynwald in October 2024, which also called for a review of the current legislative framework between the Department of Health and Social Care and Manx Care.

A later resolution passed in April then highlighted the need to examine funding allocations for third sector organisations delivering essential services.

The review will now be delivered by the Mersey Internal Audit Agency, which is a specialist provider of assurance and advisory services to the NHS and third sector.

It will be overseen by DHSC's interim chief officer, Professor Tim O'Neill.

As part of the review process, interviews will now take place with a range of individuals and organisations across the health and social care system.

They include members of Tynwald, patients and service users, as well as union groups and third sector partners.

It will also be supported by a desktop review of key documentation and governance structures.

A report is then due to be submitted to Tynwald by the end of September which will include analysis and recommendations for reform.

There'll also be an internal review by the DHSC before it's scrutinised by the Council of Ministers and submitted for debate in December.

The health minister, Claire Christian MHK, says: "With Manx Care now in its fifth year, this is a timely opportunity to reflect on how the current arrangements are working in practice. 

"Members of Tynwald have raised important questions about the effectiveness of existing governance structures and whether Manx Care is fully equipped to meet its Mandate within the resources available.

"This review will help ensure our health and care services are governed effectively, transparently and in a way that delivers the best outcomes for our community. 

"We are committed to listening to all voices and working collaboratively to shape the future of health and social care on our Island."

You can see a full list of the stakeholders involved below:

• MHKs & MLCs
• Patients, service users
• Isle of Man Medical Society
• Union Groups (BMA, RCN, PSC etc.)
• Manx Care Board
• DHSC leadership team
• UK providers (Tertiary)
• Third sector
• Public Accounts Committee
• Social Affairs Policy Review Committee
• Health Services Consultative Committee
• Health and Social Care Ombudsman Body
• Mental Health Commission
• Safeguarding Board
• Public Health
• Cabinet Office
• Attorney General’s Office
• Isle of Man Government shared services: Office of Human Resources; Treasury; Communications; Department of Infrastructure

To view or download a copy of the terms of reference of the Governance Review of the Arm’s Length Arrangements between the Department of Health & Social Care and Manx Care, click here.