asked the Minister for Health if, in view of the fact that the waiting list for cataract operations in the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital Dublin, is six months for males and one year for females, he will permit county ophthalmic surgeons to carry out these operations in county hospitals.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Waiting List for Cataract Operations.
28.
Mr. O'Malley
I am advised that there are strong medical objections to having major ophthalmic surgery performed in county hospitals by reason of the danger of cross-infection which could result in the loss of an eye.
In addition to the hospital mentioned in the question, facilities for ophthalmic surgery are available in hospitals in Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford, and a further unit will be available in Sligo when proposed extensions to the county hospital have been completed.
My Department has been examining the position and it is hoped that by making greater use of existing facilities outside of Dublin and by a suggested rearrangement of the accommodation in the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital which is at present being considered by the authorities of that hospital, it will be possible to bring about a considerable reduction in the waiting period for cataract cases.