John Deasy
Question:63 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Health and Children the estimated capital cost for providing a radiotherapy unit at Waterford Regional Hospital; and the estimated annual operating costs of same. [6718/03]
Written Answers - Hospital Services.
Based on a minimum desirable provision of four linear accelerators, with support for CT and non-CT simulation, treatment planning, therapy-based imaging, brachytherapy and specialist radiation oncology-perioperative procedures, the estimated capital cost of establishing a radiotherapy centre is of the order of €35 million, which includes construction, equipping and patient accommodation costs. Revenue costs are estimated at approximately €10 million, of which €2.3 million would be in respect of hostel accommodation for patients-families on or near a hospital campus. Indicative staffing numbers for such a radiotherapy centre, including staffing for patient accommodation, would be in the region of 130.
As the House is aware, I established the expert review group on radiotherapy services to examine the appropriate future development of radiotherapy services. The group has conducted a national assessment of needs for radiotherapy services having regard to the demography and epidemiology of cancer and the gaps in current service provision. I understand that the report of the group is at the final editing stage and will be submitted to me shortly. Following consideration of the report, I will submit proposals for consideration by Government in relation to the provision of additional radiotherapy services.