Paul Reid says Covid has had “enduring consequences” on the rest of the health service.
The HSE chief is explaining to TDs at this morning’s health committee that the health service practically came to a “standstill” following the initial onslaught of Covid in March.
This results in cancelled operations and postponed tests and procedures that we are still living with more than seven months later.
But he is arguing that the massive €600million Winter Plan boost will help them get back on track.
Mr Reid added that the priority going forward is to get cancer services and nursing home care back to peak.
Mr Reid is saying in his opening statement: “On 27 March 2020, just as we were emerging from last year’s winter season, a decision was taken by NPHET to postpone all non-essential surgery, health procedures and other non-essential services on account of COVID-19.
“This necessary decision led to a near standstill of scheduled healthcare activity. Although activity has resumed, there have been enduring consequences for our health services.
“In the knowledge that we will be delivering services within a COVID-19 environment until after the development of a vaccine (or cure), we published a Strategic Framework for Service Continuity.
“The Framework outlines our key objectives including the resumption of services, the retention of surge capacity, and the adoption of new technologies.
“Our Winter Plan builds on this Framework and aims to ensure that we are as prepared as possible for the anticipated seasonal pressures, which this year will be more challenging than ever.
“We have been entrusted with €600m in order to achieve these objectives; the biggest allocation ever made for a Winter Plan.
“We are committed to investing this money in the places where it will have maximum impact.”
Mr Reid adds: “Additional key priorities include supporting nursing homes, strengthening public health capacity and minimising the impacts of COVID-19 on our cancer services, including screening.
“Winter funding will only get us so far.
“Our success is also heavily predicated on the public continuing to taking the necessary precautions as per public health advice and continuing the downward trend in community transmission of COVID-19.”
