Sláintecare is a 10-year reform programme implemented in 2018 to transform the healthcare system in Ireland, to put people at the centre of the health system(1). Aims of Sláintecare include delivering universal access to timely, quality integrated health care, where residents can access health services based on need and not financial abilities(1). Ireland is currently in its 6th year since the implementation of Sláintecare began, making strides towards its goal of accessible, universal healthcare. Currently, there are two reform programmes in place. The first reform program consist of projects to improve safe, timely access to care for patients and promoting health and wellbeing. The second reform program consist of projects to address health inequalities(2).
This research will describe and assess aspects of health system coverage and access to healthcare in Ireland before and during Sláintecare’s implementation. Secondary analysis will be undertaken on existing, publicly available data relating to the indicators of Sláintecare’s progress. The indicators used will be 1) coverage (the extent of medical card, GP visit card coverage and private health insurance), 2) access to medical care (waiting lists for public community and hospital services) and 3) public health system workforce (3).