Tim Glover MHK said the issue was not whether the funding was needed but why budgets were being set below “known reality”, arguing agency staffing costs had become a structural part of the healthcare system, rather than a temporary pressure.
Julie Edge, MHK, renewed calls for a “forensic audit” of Manx Care, and questioned whether the budget was at all realistic.
Others defended the healthcare provider, pointing out that bosses had warned of the overspend at the start of the financial year.
Lawrie Hooper MHK argued several costs had not been included in its allocated budget, and said members had effectively chosen to continue providing services without fully funding them.
Hooper said the debate highlighted a disconnect between the level of healthcare services expected and the funding provided.
Responding to the concerns, Christian acknowledged there should have been earlier discussions about whether some services should be delayed or reduced if funding was unavailable.
She also said work was under way to strengthen financial controls and reduce reliance on “temporary staffing”.
She said financial oversight had improved and that stronger controls, workforce planning and service transformation programmes were aimed at creating a more sustainable healthcare system.