Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 29 Nov 1990

Vol. 403 No. 3

Written Answers. - Occupational Therapists.

Eric J. Byrne

Question:

32 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Health the number of occupational therapists employed in the Eastern Health Board area; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a nine months' waiting list for visits by occupational therapists in area 3; if he intends to provide additional resources for the employment of extra occupational therapists to reduce the waiting lists, particularly in view of the hardship that this can cause for old people awaiting visits; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

There are 42 occupational therapists employed by the Eastern Health Board.

I understand from inquiries which I have had made with the board that cases in community care area 3 which require urgent attention by an occupational therapist are dealt with immediately but, in cases of the lowest priority there can be a delay of up to six months.

In line with my Department's policy of developing services for the elderly, approval has been given to the Eastern Health Board for the recruitment of an additional ten occupational therapists and these are being recruited at present.