asked the Minister for Health the average waiting period for cleft palate and mouth treatment; the number of patients at present awaiting treatment, and the steps being taken to ensure the elimination of waiting lists; if his attention has been drawn to the enormous costs to parents whose children need cleft palate and mouth treatment; the steps being taken to assist parents in this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers - Cleft Palate Treatment.
65.
Patients, children, born with cleft lip and-or palate are treated from birth but the nature of the disability entails that patients must attend for treatment over a number of years. The treatment is performed in St. James's Hospital, the Children's Hospital, Temple Street and Crumlin Hospital. There are approximately 64 patients on the waiting lists with an average waiting period of two to three months for treatment.
The cleft palate unit has now transferred from Dr. Steeven's to St. James's Hospital. The consultants involved in the unit are satisfied that the facilities now available represent a considerable improvement on what has been the position and I am glad to say that this unit has been commissioned. I am satisfied that this new improved facility will result in a quicker throughput of patients on the waiting list. Patients with statutory entitlement to medical services are not charged for this treatment and I am unaware of any other costs to the parents of these children.