(Limerick East) asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a person (details supplied) in Limerick whose feet were fractured as a result of an accident in Spain was refused admission to the Regional Hospital in Limerick, after he had been flown back from Spain to receive medical attention at the hospital; that he was also refused the use of a wheelchair; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Refusal of Hospital Admission.
40.
The patient referred to by the Deputy was not refused admission to Limerick Regional Hospital. He attended the casualty department at the hospital on 19 March last and was seen immediately by the casualty officer on duty. He was then sent for an X-ray and was examined by the Orthopaedic registrar who did not consider it necessary to have him admitted to the hospital. Accordingly, he was discharged and taken home by ambulance.
The hospital retains only a small number of wheelchairs for use within the hospital. Wheelchairs for persons outside the hospital setting are provided through the local community care services and the patient was advised as to the appropriate way of applying. I understand that the wheelchair has since been supplied.