No. 42 of 2004 - Health Act 2004
What does this law do?
This Act provides for the reform of the management structures in the health service, by providing for the establishment of the Health Service Executive (HSE) which will be responsible for managing the health service as a single national entity.
The HSE will take over responsibility for the functions being performed by the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards and other specified bodies, all of which will be dissolved on its establishment.
The Act strengthens the arrangements for governance and accountability in the health system. It provides for the establishment of structures to enable participation by public representatives and service users in matters relating to health and personal social services. The Act also establishes a statutory complaints framework.
Contact Department: Department of Health & Children
Signed by the President on: 17.12.04
Full version of Health Act 2004 on Oireachtas website