DHSC commissions report after concerns raised by doctors
Overall bed capacity at Noble's Hospital is going to be the subject of an 'independent rapid review'.
It's being commissioned by the Department of Health and Social Care after serious concerns were raised by medical staff on the site.
Last month, the Medical Staff Committee, made up of 75 senior doctors and consultants, called for immediate government intervention amidst what it described as a 'critical shortfall in inpatient bed capacity'.
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'No single solution'
Health Minister Claire Christian says: ‘The review builds on recent engagement with the Medical Staffing Committee (MSC) and Manx Care’s initial actions to manage and mitigate pressures on hospital bed capacity and ensure services remain safe, high quality and responsive.
‘Last month, my Department and I committed to a review of bed capacity and I am determined that this work is progressed at pace and with clear focus. This independent review is an important step in taking ownership of the challenges we face and to provide the assurance on whether current mitigations are sufficient, as well as identifying any further actions that are required.
‘With the collaboration of a small working group consisting of frontline clinicians, the Manx Care Board, Medical Staffing Committee and the British Medical Association, the review will reflect key stakeholder and professional input.
‘Manx Care’s actions demonstrate the proactive steps being taken to address immediate concerns. The independent rapid review will provide the Department, the Isle of Man Government and the public with assurance around the proposed mitigations and to inform both immediate next steps and the future long-term strategy to meet the demand across our health and care system.
‘There is no single solution, but through strong leadership, partnership working and the dedication of our exceptional frontline staff, we are taking decisive action to ease pressures and deliver the improvements our community deserves.’
The DHSC says some measures are already being progressed to relieve pressure on services, and an interim 12-space Emergency Department Clinical Decisions Unit is scheduled to open by the end of May which it says will provide additional assessment capacity for patients who require observation or treatment without the need for inpatient admission.
Meanwhile, with the support of Treasury, the DHSC says it's secured a 'modular unit' to provide Minor Injuries Unit and Radiology services in Ramsey from 'Mid-May'.
Work has also reportedly commenced on plans to create extra acute bed capacity in Noble’s through the relocation of the Martin Ward back to Ramsey providing a longer‑term solution to the current pressures.
The Martin Ward has been closed since October 2025 to allow remedial works following a pest control issue in part of the building’s roof space.
Speaking to Manx Radio last week, Manx Care CEO Teresa Cope said the work was 'taking longer than expected'.
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