Setting the Scene

Barry O'Sullivan

The Healthcare environment in Ireland is a complicated and multifaceted one. Two of the key drivers which set the scene are the published or official position in relation to the Irish situation and the external (non-official) catalysts.

Recent Reports / Publications Quality and Fairness -  Health Strategy Hanly Report Prospectus Report Health Service Reform Programme Hannley report These publications comprise of evaluations of the status quo and make proposals for the future.

External - Influences and Challenges Finance/Economics Demographics  Technology Public Perception Quality Legislation These external influences art constantly interacting and influencing the situation.

The scene is set by a combination of the published position and the external catalysts where the only constant is change. A major reform programme is about to start and the road map has yet to be clearly defined.