The Health departments in both islands are going to see significant reforms over the next few years, and now the outgoing Health Minister in Guernsey, Paul Luxon, has reached an agreement with Jersey’s Health Minister Andrew Green for regular meetings between their staff.
Already, the Channel Islands have collaborated on the joint air ambulance project, the pan-Island pandemic flu strategy, public health profiles, complaints procedures and operational plans at the hospitals.
Health Minister Andrew Green said: “Guernsey and Jersey already work together successfully in a number of areas and it has long been understood that there are many advantages of doing so.
“We can see a real opportunity to take things one step further in the transformation of the future provision of our health services.
“Where there is common ground, it’s logical to share each other’s experience and actively work together so we make sure that we are able to collaborate when the opportunity arises and make efficiency savings where we can.”
Guernsey’s Health Minister Paul Luxon – who is due to step down after the current elections – added: “This is a natural and sensible step to take in light of the public service reform programmes of both islands.
“We have shared demographic challenges and our geography and close proximity give us an opportunity to work closely together on areas of common interest and to maximise the opportunities this gives us.”
Senator Green added that he was looking forward to a meeting with Deputy Luxon’s successor after next week’s election to keep the ball rolling.