A distinguished clinician has been appointed to spearhead a 12-month independent review of the island’s healthcare system.

Sir Jonathan Michael, a former chief executive of three NHS Foundation Trusts in the UK who was knighted in 2005 for services to the NHS, will look at options for the future direction of the Manx NHS.

The review will cover the scope and delivery of services, quality and safety, funding, staffing and technology.

It will examine whether the principle of services largely free at the point of delivery is still valid, or whether there should be more charges or means-testing introduced.

An interim report will be submitted to Tynwald in January 2019, with the final report presented for discussion at the May 2019 sitting.

Evidence will be gathered from healthcare service users and providers, the government and the public, while consideration will be given to operating models other than the English NHS.

The move to establish a fundamental review was supported by Tynwald in January.

It is set against the backdrop of rising demand and of the Department of Health and Social Care repeatedly going over-budget, with future costs predicted to rise by an extra £60m by 2022-23.

Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan said: ‘I believe we have reached a critical juncture.

’Financial projections point to funding levels becoming unsustainable in the years ahead. Unless positive action is taken there is a concern healthcare provision may deteriorate or funding for other public services will suffer.’

Health and Social Care Minister David Ashford said: ‘In common with other countries, the Isle of Man needs to re-examine and challenge its model in the context of financial sustainability, an ageing population, advances in technology and treatments and increasing public expectations.’

Sir Jonathan said: ‘This review is an opportunity to take stock of what is and isn’t working for the Isle of Man and to set out policy options for the future. It is a significant challenge and one I am looking forward to.’