Medical Society calls for 'statutory elected body' as chief exec exits Manx Care

IOMMS says it's 'essential that the momentum for fundamental reform is maintained'

The Isle of Man Medical Society has thanked the outgoing chief executive of Manx Care for her 'dedicated service' whilst calling for the implementation of a professional executive committee going forward.

The body has repeatedly called for a 'statutory, elected body' designed to 'serve as a vital bridge between frontline clinical expertise and executive management'.

In a letter sent to Manx Care staff, this morning, Teresa Cope confirmed she'll be leaving her post at the end of June.

You can read more HERE.

In a statement released to Manx Radio the IOMMS says it is 'essential that the momentum for fundamental reform is maintained' and that it 'expects to be fully involved in the arrangements for interim leadership and the recruitment process for a permanent successor'.

It adds: "As we enter this period of transition it is essential that the momentum for fundamental reform is maintained. 

"The IOMMS remains steadfast in its commitment to the Recovery and Reform Plan which advocates for a shift towards a more transparent, accountable, and clinically led health service.

"Central to our vision is the implementation of a Professional Executive Committee (PEC).

"This statutory, elected body is designed to serve as a vital bridge between frontline clinical expertise and executive management, ensuring that operational decisions are grounded in professional and patient-centred realities. We believe that establishing this "Governance Triangle"—balancing the Board, the Executive, and the PEC—is the most effective way to ensure patient safety, improve quality, and address the current financial and operational challenges.

"The IOMMS expects to be fully involved in the arrangements for interim leadership and the recruitment process for a permanent successor. It is our firm view that the next phase of Manx Care must prioritise:

• Clinically-led Governance: Embedding medical leadership at the heart of the decision-making process.
• Management Efficiency: Streamlining administrative structures to redeploy resources back to frontline clinical and support roles.
• Local Accountability: Ensuring the Board remains responsive to the needs of the Manx public.

"We look forward to working collaboratively with the Department of Health and Social Care and the Manx Care Board to ensure that this leadership change serves as a catalyst for the patient-centred, doctor-led health service our community deserves."