In a move that secures long-term GP capacity in Alderney, the States of Alderney and States of Guernsey have jointly purchased Island Medical Limited (IML).
The company, which runs the Island Medical Centre (IMC), will continue to operate as normal, with Queens Road Medical Practice continuing to support for the next six months while long-term plans are finalised.
This is an important step for the healthcare provision in Alderney and both governments are grateful for the support received from Island Medical Centre staff and the Alderney community during the last few months.
While work has been progressing over the purchase of IML, discussions have also been taking place in parallel between the States of Guernsey and States of Alderney on the broader future of health and care in Alderney. As these discussions progress further they will be overseen by an Alderney Care Board, which will include representation from both islands; Deputies Brouard and Matthews from the Committee for Health & Social Care, Mr Ian Carter and Mr Boyd Kelly from the States of Alderney with Deputy Mark Helyar acting as
chairperson in his role as the Policy & Resources Committee lead on matters relating to Bailiwick relationships. The first meeting of this group is due to take place in early November.
Mr Carter, Chairman of the States of Alderney’s Policy & Finance Committee, said: “Through the combined efforts of many the seamless transfer of the ownership of IML, which runs the Island Medical Centre, to the States has been successfully concluded. The Island has benefited from six years of Mr & Mrs Fitton’s ownership which, supported by the team of doctors, nurses and administrative staff, has delivered an essential community service. The ownership change will help support the longer-term strategy for greater coordination between all of the Island’s health and care services. The business has effectively been given to the States at nil cost.”
Deputy Helyar said: “With the support of both islands, plans are developing for a more resilient and sustainable model of care which supports the health and wellbeing of Alderney residents and encourages providers to work closely together to shape service offerings. These discussions are very important and the successful acquisition of
Island Medical Limited is the first step. We will be able to provide further information in the coming months.”
