Budget: health care heads in "serious harm" warning over impact of cuts
All six Trust chairs say they are "deeply concerned"
Health care leaders across Northern Ireland warned today (Monday) of the potential for "serious harm" caused by what they branded an "inadequate" budgetary provision.
In a joint statement, six health trusts chairs, said they were "deeply concerned" for frontline services.
And they warned of cutbacks leading to a damaging impact on the entire community especially "the most vulnerable".
"Our focus has to be on everyone in Northern Ireland who needs the health and social care services that our organisations provide," the said.
"It is our duty to warn of the very real potential for avoidable and serious harm being caused to people in our community who require our help, as a result of inadequate budgetary provision.
"HSC Trusts have, of course, an onerous responsibility to make efficient use of all public resources. Intensive efforts are ongoing to deliver a significant level of savings this year, as detailed in the financial assessment published on 28/05/2024 by the Department of Health.
"As this document makes clear, even with these savings, a projected very significant shortfall remains that could only be filled by measures with high and catastrophic impacts. "
Referring to cutbacks they said this would "inevitably" include bed closures "as well as reductions in outpatient care, operating lists, domiciliary care and nursing care packages."
"We are keenly aware of the need to reform services and invest in new technology. We know too that health drives our economy and contributes on numerous levels to well-being in society," they added.
"The reality is that without significant additional funding this year and longer-term financial security, the Health Service will be further destabilised and the public will bear the brunt."
"We have a collective responsibility as leaders to highlight these concerns, on behalf of our dedicated workforce and all those who rely on the vital services our organisations provide.
"We will continue to work constructively with staff, elected representatives and other stakeholders to pursue the best outcomes for patients and service users."