Recently, the Health and Social Care Portfolio (HSC) issued a letter updating patients identified for overseas medical referral on the status of their referrals. However, some recipients have misunderstood the contents of this letter, leading to miscommunication in the public domain. The HSC aims to address these concerns and provide an update on overseas medical referrals.
As per standard procedure, the HSC prioritizes referrals based on clinical need and maintains a waiting list for all overseas referrals. Efforts are made to keep patients informed of their position on this list.
The HSC has openly communicated its current budgetary limitations across all services, including overseas medical referrals due to increasing complexities. This information has been presented to the Public Accounts Committee and is continually discussed in public forums.
Recognizing that every patient has unique circumstances, those with concerns regarding their diagnoses or ongoing healthcare needs are encouraged to contact the appointments line to schedule a consultation with either the Senior Medical Officer or Chief Medical Officer.
In its letter distributed to patients, the HSC reiterated its willingness to assist those who can self-fund by facilitating necessary arrangements for overseas medical treatment. Patients opting for private treatment allow the HSC to direct limited resources towards individuals unable to afford overseas care costs.
The HSC remains committed to providing optimal healthcare services within available resources.
Patients with questions regarding overseas medical referrals are encouraged to contact the HSC appointments line at 22321.
Alerts Sign-up