asked the Minister for Health the length of time patients have to wait for hip-replacement operations in the Western Health Board area.
583.
Written Answers. - Hip-Replacement Operations.
582.
asked the Minister for Health whether hip-replacement operations can be performed in the Western Health Board region during each month of the year.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 582 and 583 together.
The average time spent by patients awaiting hip-replacement operations in the Western Health Board area is 1.9 years.
I understand that there is some restriction on hip-replacement operations in Merlin Park Hospital during the summer months. I have asked my medical advisers to inquire into the situation urgently and I will be in touch with the Deputy later on the matter.