James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 188: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the details on Health Service Executive value for money programme and what this includes; the estimated saving in each area; the estimated savings on a per annum basis; the way savings are going to be achieved; the defined targets and timelines for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40011/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Clearly, the current fiscal position demands the most careful control of public expenditure and I am strongly of the view that account needs to be taken of all opportunities for efficiencies. I am conscious of the need to make savings where possible without impacting on service levels and I have consistently communicated this need to the HSE and other health agencies.

As part of a multi-annual approach to value for money announced by me in the context of the Budget, a range of value for money measures was outlined in the HSE Service Plan 2009 and is reported on a monthly basis in the HSE Performance Reports against the Plan. The value for money savings of €280m achieved in 2008 are currently reported as being broadly maintained in 2009. The HSE also currently anticipates meeting the required €115m overall value for money savings target for 2009 identified in the Plan. While savings in some areas have been lower than expected, the HSE envisages that these will be compensated for through additional savings being achieved in other areas.

The Service Plan also targeted the achievement of €135m in service reconfiguration efficiency measures in 2009 in order to offset expected cost pressures and stay within budget. The HSE has experienced unforeseen cost pressures in areas such as the pandemic flu and higher than expected superannuation costs associated with increase in retirements. Notwithstanding these pressures, the HSE continues to control spending to the greatest degree possible within the limits approved for its Vote.

Operational responsibility for the management of value for money is a matter for the Health Service Executive. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have a more detailed reply issued directly to the Deputy on the specific matters raised.