Health Minister Dr. John Cortes will this week attend a series of meetings in the Isle of Wight and London. The Isle of Wight shares a similar health service to that of Gibraltar, with regards to primary, secondary and mental health services. Both services are also managed by the same health care provider.

It is hoped that close links will be developed between the GHA and the Isle of Wight, which will provide opportunities for training and development in particular. Designate Chief Executive of the GHA, Freddie Pitto will be closely involved in developing this initiative, and the visit is part of his preparation for taking on the role of CEO on 1st September.

During the visit, Dr. Cortes will be performing the official opening of the new Pathology Department of the Isle of Wight NHS Trust, an event, which will be widely covered in the Isle of Wight's media.

In London, there will be meetings with the Department of Health and visits to a number of hospitals with a view to improving services available for patients from visiting consultants and as sponsored patients. Dr Cortes will also be meeting with Foreign & Commonwealth Office officials to discuss a number of matters related to environmental protection in Gibraltar.

Finally, a visit to Kingston and St George’s University will serve to develop the relationship that already exists with the GHA School of Health Studies.