Jim Higgins
Question:228 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Health the number of applicants currently awaiting hip replacement operations; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Hip Replacement Operations.
The information most recently available to my Department indicates that there are 1,945 patients awaiting admission to hospital for hip replacement surgery at present.
As a result of the special measures taken last year, the output for hip replacement operations increased in 1989 by 15 per cent from the projected target of 1,900 to 2,200.
With regard to 1990, the overall elective orthopaedic activity projected is 15,606 compared to 12,823 patients treated in 1989. This represents an increase of nearly 22 per cent. The priority in relation to orthopaedics is to increase the throughput for hip replacement operations and a significant proportion of the extra activity is designated for hip replacement surgery.