asked the Minister for Health the number of patients awaiting hip operations in the Southern Health Board area; and if he has any proposals to supplement the income of the board to enable them to clear the list, in light of the severe hardship being experienced by many of those on the waiting list.
Written Answers. - Hip Operations.
100.
The number of patients awaiting hip operations in the Southern Health Board area is 412.
The funding of services in Southern Health Board institutions is a matter for the health board. However, officials of my Department are discussing with the board ways in which the number of hip operations could be increased. I am hopeful that these discussions will result in a reduction in the waiting time for hip operations.