Jersey Care Model to be debated in November

23 September 2020

The Minister for Health and Community Services, Deputy Richard Renouf, has lodged a proposition to the States Assembly to support the strategic direction of the Jersey Care Model, which is due to be debated in the first week of November.

The Jersey Care Model aims to transform health and social care in order to improve the physical and mental health of Islanders, with care that is affordable, safe and accessible, and provided in the places where people need it the most.

The proposition includes findings from an independent review by the PWC Healthcare Team, which found that the model is in line with good practice for integrated care and should enhance the quality, safety, and timeliness of health care across the Island.

Deputy Richard Renouf said: “The Jersey Care Model will lead to a more integrated, proactive way of caring for Islanders, which relies less on hospitalisation and encourages self-care and care in the community.

“It is closely aligned with the Government of Jersey’s Common Strategic Policy - in particular to improve Islander’s wellbeing and in preparing for more Islanders living longer.” 

The population of Jersey is expected to grow by 13% in the next ten years, with a growing proportion within age groups that have greater health care needs.

Deputy Renouf added:

“Through the public consultation meetings in Parishes late last year, there is recognition from Islanders that a change is required, and a health and care system that is integrated and sustainable is important and needed for Jersey.

“We intend to engage further with the public concerning the development of the model and their needs and requirements, building on the initial round of discussions.

“We also recognise that implementation will need to be phased, while being able to be responsive to any immediate needs in the system, including COVID-19. Therefore, a multi-year implementation plan for the Jersey Care Model has been developed with key projects prioritised in tranches.

“The emphasis of the first tranche will be on detailed planning, particularly around workforce and project management to support out health and care professionals to be able to deliver the new model, establishing the necessary foundations to deliver care, particularly in the area of intermediate care.”

Funding for the programme will be proposed via the Government Plan 2021-2024 debate in December 2020.