The Bermuda Health Council Act was introduced to the House of Assembly in 2004 to establish the Bermuda Health Council with specific responsibility to regulate, coordinate and enhance the delivery of health services. The Act is divided into four parts and a Schedule. The Act in its entirety is located on this website under Acts and Regulations. Below you will find the key mandated functions of the Health Council.
Section 4
The purpose of the Council is to regulate, coordinate and enhance the delivery of health services.
Section 5
A summary of the functions of the Council include:
- Ensuring the provision of essential health services
- Exercising regulatory responsibility over health services
- Regulating health service providers and health professionals
- Licensing health insurers and health service providers
- Identifying future challenges and goals for the healthcare system
- Regulating the cost of prescription drugs
Section 6
The Council is comprised of between 9 and 11 members all of whom are appointed by the Minister of Health. In addition, the Chief Medical Officer, CEO of the Council, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and the Financial Secretary sit as ex-officio members on the Council.
Section 7
The Minister of Health provides policy directions to the Council related to the performance of its functions.
Section 9
The Chief Executive Officer is appointed by the Council with the approval of the Minister of Health.
Sections 11 & 12
The Council is required to submit financial reports on a yearly basis to the Auditor General and an annual report to the Minister of Health which will subsequently be presented to the House of Assembly and Senate.
Sections 13 – 16
The Council shall license all health providers. The Minister of Health, after consultation with the Council, shall make regulations to govern the process of licensing health providers and inspecting their premises. This will include establishing fees.
Section 17 & 18
The Council and staff must maintain confidentiality and Council members are granted immunity in the exercise of their functions.
Mission Statement:
Our mission is to regulate, coordinate and enhance the provision of health services in Bermuda.
Our Vision:
“To achieve a quality, equitable and sustainable health system.”
