Vol. 550 No. 2
333 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the midlands is the only health board area that does not have a renal dialysis unit operational; if he will review this matter; and the possible start up date for such a facility in that area. [7995/02]
Responsibility for the provision of health services, including renal services, in the midland region rests with the Midland Health Board in the first instance. However, the Deputy will be aware that a detailed analysis of acute hospital bed capacity needs has been conducted by my Department in conjunction with the Department of Finance and in consultation with the social partners. The subsequent report titled Acute Hospital Bed Capacity – A National Review, which was published on 16 January 2002, helped to inform the Government in its decision to provide a total of 3,000 additional acute beds for public patients over the next ten years.
The new hospital development at the Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore includes a renal dialysis unit for the midland region. In the interim, and as a part of the bed capacity review, the board in partnership with the Irish Kidney Association, will develop a temporary dialysis unit on the hospital campus at Tullamore in 2002. Indicative funding of €485,000 has been set aside for this purpose.
