Politicians hoping to force debate on healthcare

Politicians are attempting to force a debate on a report looking at how doctors are evaluated.

The annual report, which has been lodged as an appendix, outlines key findings from Guernsey's top doctor to inform the States about issues like regulation of medical professionals.

Deputy Gavin St Pier, who is leading the push for a debate along with Deputy Chris Blin, said the States should implement a more "robust regulatory regime for health and social care".

"We think that receiving the Responsible Officer's annual report ought to be more than a tick box exercise for the States," he added.

St Pier said the annual report was the "only information" provided to the States in relation to the regulation of healthcare providers.

"It is important, in our view, that the States makes the time and takes the opportunity to consider it."

An appendix report is ordinarily not debated unless a motion to debate is successful, Blin said.

He added: "Health is our largest public service and, as such, the quality of care, outcomes and regulation are public interest issues.

"It is interesting to note from the report that that the number of locally registered doctors has grown by about two-thirds in 10 years from 200 or so to closer to 350.

"That is one reflection of our community's growing healthcare needs."

Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.