Department of Health (Northern Ireland)

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Department of Health

An Roinn Sláinte
Agency overview
Formed	1921
Jurisdiction	Northern Ireland
Headquarters	Belfast, Northern Ireland
Minister responsible	Minister of Health
Parent department	Northern Ireland Executive

The Department of Health (DoH) (Irish: An Roinn Sláinte) is a devolved government department in the Northern Ireland Executive. It is responsible for health policy, public health, and the administration of healthcare services in Northern Ireland.

History

The Department of Health was established in 1921 following the creation of Northern Ireland as a separate entity within the United Kingdom. It has undergone several changes and reorganizations over the years, reflecting the evolving needs and priorities of the healthcare system.

Responsibilities

The Department of Health is tasked with:

• Developing and implementing health policy
• Overseeing the delivery of healthcare services
• Promoting public health and well-being
• Regulating healthcare professionals and facilities
• Managing the National Health Service (NHS) in Northern Ireland

Structure

The Department of Health is headed by the Minister of Health, who is appointed by the First Minister and deputy First Minister. The department is divided into several divisions, each responsible for different aspects of healthcare and public health.

Key Initiatives

The Department of Health has launched several key initiatives to improve healthcare services and public health in Northern Ireland, including:

• The Transforming Your Care program, aimed at reforming the health and social care system
• The Making Life Better public health framework, which focuses on improving health outcomes and reducing health inequalities
• The Mental Health Strategy, which outlines plans to enhance mental health services and support

Related Agencies

The Department of Health works closely with various agencies and organizations, including:

• The Public Health Agency
• The Health and Social Care Board
• The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority
• The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service

See Also

• Healthcare in Northern Ireland
• National Health Service (NHS)
• Public Health Agency (Northern Ireland)
• Health and Social Care Board
• Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority
• Northern Ireland Ambulance Service