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Bella Farrell is taking over the reins of CareWatch, having been appointed Chair of the organisation.
CareWatch was formed in 2017 under the leadership of Roger Allsopp OBE who stepped down as Chair in 2021.
Mr Allsopp and others set CareWatch up following the introduction of the 'Partnership of Purpose' which was intended to 'Transform Bailiwick Health and Care'.
CareWatch was launched to ensure patient perspectives are heard and included in any decision making processes.
Since its launch it has been involved in vital work including supporting the States in carrying out a review of NICE approved medicines earlier this year.
The Committee for Health and Social Care had proposed funding drugs in receipt of a Technology Appraisal from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE TAs) in 2020.
NICE TAs are recommended new and existing medicines that can be made available to patients quickly and are routinely funded across the NHS (National Health Service) in the UK.
The States approved proposals in January 2021 and HSC undertook a 2-year process to implement a NICE TA programme.
HSC is currently reviewing the implementation process with a mind to propose future funding for the medicines and treatments within the NICE TA programme.
Pictured: CareWatch is helping HSC with a review of NICE approved medicines.
CareWatch has also carried out its own research, including a survey which showed that the cost of an appointment had stopped 48% of people from going to see their doctor.
1,985 people responded to the survey, representing 3.5% of the population. The results were published ONLINE.
Ms Farrell said the charity's aims will remain the same with her at the helm as it seeks to improve outcomes for residents needing to access health and social care services.
“I'm thrilled to accept this position and look forward to working with a panel of people who are passionate about representing the voice of people in our community who need support from Health and Care services.
"Putting people, with their unique needs at the heart of service delivery and development within a complex health system has been my personal mission for a very long time. I'm looking forward to representing CareWatch at a time when resources are limited but compassionate CARE remains the priority for everyone”.
Pictured: Retired surgeon Roger Allsopp OBE helped launch CareWatch in 2017 and was its Chair until 2021.
Mike Read had been Interim Chair since Mr Allsopp stood down two and a half years ago.
He said Ms Farrell is joining them at a crucial time with the review of NICE TA's and other work streams ongoing.
“At a time when the demand for health and social care services has never been higher, the financial challenges never greater and future never so uncertain, the role of the CareWatch panel and it's Chair have never been more important.
"Finding the right person to lead us and provide that voice for the users of health services is vital. The panel were unanimous in their decision and look forward to welcoming Bella as Chair next week.”
Ms Farrell will officially take over as Chair of CareWatch from Wednesday 20 September.
President of Health and Social Care, Deputy Al Brouard said he is "delighted that Bella has been appointed as the new Chair for CareWatch.
"The purpose of CareWatch has always been to act as a two-way communication channel between our community and Health and Social Care. Person-centred and high-quality care is key to optimising the best outcomes for those who use our many services.
"The CARE values of compassion, accountability, respect and excellence underpin all the teams do and I am confident that Bella will work in partnership with us in these complex and challenging times for health and social care."
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