Programme for Government health commitments, potentially ‘revolutionary’

The first sentence in the health section the new programme for government reads ‘this government is the first in the history of the State that is committed to developing a universal, single tier health services, which guarantees access to medical care based on need, not income’. The opening line of the full document refers to a ‘democratic revolution’ that took place on election day, how with the stroke of a pen the public had demanded change. 

Labour’s health policy, how it differs from Fine Gael, and what Sinn Fein are proposing

Yet to blog but if you want to hear today’s health slot, click on here and scroll down to ‘Drivetime with Mary Wilson: Thursday, February 10 (6.40-7pm)’ and press play, its the first item up…

The health myths that have outlasted Mary Harney

See her article I wrote for crisisjam posted on politico.ie today

ESRI evidence on health

ESRI CEO Frances Ruane chaired an expert group on Resource Allocation in the health sector set up by Mary Harney in April 2008. They have published two volumes of research as well as the report of the working group. Here are some interesting findings from the 800 pages…

Evidence shows no benefits from prescription charges

Read article by me on this topic in last Saturday’s Irish Times

Progress looms on driving down drugs prices but prescription fees are unacceptable

On 16 June, when Fine Gael were battling out their leadership,  Minister Mary Harney announced new legislation which will deliver savings for individuals and the public purse on drugs prices. The plan is that from early next year (2011), legislation will be passed which allows for greater generic substitution and reference pricing – it’s not as complicated as it sounds. Plus Harney confirmed the introduction of her misinformed prescription charges.