S.L. 528.1 Art. 3Functions and responsibilities of the Department of Policy in Health.

(1) It shall be the function of the Department of Policy in

Health to generally advise the Minister on all matters related to the

Government’s health policies, to advise on the development of policy and co-ordination of strategic plans, on the design and implementation of action plans, and on the evaluation of outcomes in order to contribute to the sustainability of public health and healthcare services.

(2) In particular the functions and duties of this Department shall include:

(a) to advise upon strategies and objectives for the health system;

(b) to collate, analyse and publish epidemiological data concerning the health status of the nation in order to identify and prioritize healthcare needs;

(c) to carry out needs assessments and health system planning and forecasting;

(d) to develop evidence-based and financially viable strategies in consultation with stakeholders;

(e) to engage with relevant stakeholders to implement policies and strategies;

(f) to monitor and report on health system performance and health outcomes;

(g) to advise upon health benefits and new services to be offered by the public healthcare system after thoroughly assessing and evaluating their implications, including the financial implications;

(h) to conduct health technology assessments;

(i) to administer health entitlement polices;

(j) to update the register of health benefits and advise

*see regulation 1(2) of these Regulations, as originally promulgated. cross-border initiatives;

(m) to sustain an effective dialogue with whosoever is involved in the health system and aim for the widest consensus possible about any matter relevant to health;

(n) to develop partnerships with non-governmental organisations and private healthcare providers;

(o) to co-ordinate and promote European Union and international relations;

(p) to maintain national and international networking in the field of public health and representing government in international public health related fora;

(q) to cooperate on issues within the remit of the department, with local and international organisations particularly with the institutions of the European Union involved in health;

(r) to promote research, teaching and training;

(s) to carry out such other function or functions as the Minister may from time to time determine and direct;

(t) to implement any other matter required for the fulfilment of its mission, and for the execution of duties pertaining to the State, as established in the Act.