Off-Island hospital spend £1.3m higher than expected

Manx Care says a number of factors have contributed

Manx Care has spent £1.3 million more than planned on UK hospital treatment so far this year.

The healthcare provider says higher than planned off-Island tertiary activity and challenges managing a reduced budget are among the contributing factors.

Figures published by Manx Care reveal just over £6.6 million has been spent on healthcare for patients from the Island needing treatment in hospitals across, against a planned spend of £5.3 million.

The Island's health service states non-elective, emergency care, high cost drugs and cancer care are among the issues affecting spend.

The board says organisational changes and a limited budget for off-Island care have also delayed activity planning, while discussions with NHS Trusts regarding contractual arrangements for the current financial year are ongoing.

Manx Care says some NHS Trusts have expressed concern about adapting to the new referral and approvals process, which places a greater responsibility on Manx Care to manage and reduce off-Island referrals.

It adds that submissions from trusts have been inconsistent and clinical teams are still refining their approach to managing activity within budget.