Vol. 401 No. 2
67 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Health if he has implemented any proposals to streamline the appointments system at hospital clinics, especially in Dublin, so that people do not have to wait many hours to see their doctor; if he has any proposals to introduce a standardised appointment system that would avoid this inconvenience for patients; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Earlier this year I announced an action plan for the health services which includes an initiative on the quality of patient care. This initiative involves the establishment of an effective appointment system in all major hospitals to reduce delays in all out-patient departments. Health boards and voluntary hospitals have been asked to submit details of the present organisation of out-patient clinics to my Department together with information on constraints and recommendations for improvements. I will be in touch with these agencies to ensure the earliest possible implementation of improvements in hospital out-patient clinics.
