THE success of all-Ireland co-operation in improving treatment for children needing heart surgery can be expanded into other areas of health and public services, says Sinn Féin Health spokesperson Councillor Patricia Logue.
She said “We welcome the news that increased cross border cooperation in healthcare is delivering better health outcomes not only for the service user but their families and carers,”
“I am not surprised that a logically approach to healthcare provision on the island of Ireland is producing better health outcomes and the demand for these services are rising.”
“We have been arguing for years that two health systems on the island of Ireland, doesn’t make sense.
“There are so many possibilities for further development for example, a Perinatal mental health service, covering the island of Ireland would provide a much needed and sustainable service.
“There is a great capacity in border areas to cooperate together but cooperation in health can benefit all communities. This is more important than ever, given the threat posed by Brexit.
“The all-island Congenital Heart Disease Network are leading the way but there are other services we could be looking at especially as we set about a process for much needed transformation under Michelle O’Neill’s Delivering Together plan,” added Cllr Logue.
