Monday 27 March 2023
Significant steps continue to be taken to stabilise and future-proof the health and care system in Alderney, after concerns during last summer about access to primary care.
The joint Guernsey and Alderney political forum, the Alderney Care Board, is overseeing discussions about health and care provision in Alderney, focusing on how the system can evolve following the acquisition of the Island Medical Limited in September 2022. Work is focused on developing a model that provides the services islanders need in a sustainable way.
Changes were made late last year to increase the availability of care for Alderney residents, via more appointments being available at the Island Medical Centre. Discussions continue with the Mignot Memorial Hospital in respect of how services can best be arranged between the two providers to support islanders and improve patient experience.
A new ambulance contract for the island is due to take effect from 1st April, providing a professional service for the benefit of islanders.
A new appointment has also been made by the States of Alderney to drive this important work forward.
Will Pierce has been appointed Head of Alderney Care. Among his wide-ranging responsibilities, Mr Pierce will be responsible for advising the governments of Guernsey and Alderney in relation to healthcare matters in Alderney, and contributing to the development of a clear vision and strategy for the island.
Mr Pierce will also develop the commercial focus and operational capability of the IMC, driving productivity improvements, efficiency savings and the identification and implementation of new ways of working. Understanding the specific challenges involved in delivering care to the older population in Alderney, along with liaising with providers, is another key responsibility of the new role.
Mr Pierce said:
'Alderney faces very specific challenges in trying to deliver a health and care system that both meets residents' needs and does so efficiently and with resilience. I have been deeply invested in helping the island meet those challenges since the summer and have enjoyed speaking to and learning from on-island health and care providers. Taking on the role as Head of Alderney Care gives me further opportunities to positively influence the direction of travel on the island's journey to a more sustainable model of health and care.'
The Alderney Care Board's membership consists of Deputies Al Brouard and Aidan Matthews from the Committee for Health & Social Care, Ian Carter and Boyd Kelly from the States of Alderney with Deputy Mark Helyar acting as chairperson in his role as the Policy & Resources Committee lead on matters relating to Bailiwick relationships.
