Frank Crowley
Question:263 Mr. Crowley asked the Minister for Health when persons (details supplied) in County Cork will be given an ophthalmic appointment by the Southern Health Board; and the reason for the delay.
Written Answers. - Treatment Delay.
Frank Crowley
Question:264 Mr. Crowley asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a 16 month waiting list for adults who have applied for ophthalmic treatment; and if he has any plans to alleviate this situation.
I propose to answer Questions Nos. 263 and 264 together.
The Southern Health Board have designated its ophthalmic service as a priority service for improvement. The board have been experiencing difficulties in obtaining the services of ophthalmologists to provide ophthalmic clinics in a number of areas. They have however organised additional clinics in August and September in Kanturk to bring about a reduction in the waiting time for services and it is expected that the persons referred to in the first question will be seen within four months.