Vol. 408 No. 7
151 Mr. G. O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health the number of patients awaiting hip replacements in the Southern Health Board area; the average time spent on a waiting list for this operation by a medical card holder at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
There are 302 people awaiting hip replacements in the Southern Health Board area. I understand that the average waiting time for routine cases at St. Mary's Orthopaedic Hospital, Gurranebraher, is 15-16 months. This is the average waiting period for all patients, irrespective of eligibility status.
I should explain that the admission of a patient to hospital is a clinical decision for the consultant in charge of the case. Patients are admitted to hospital in accordance with medical criteria and their position on the waiting list. Waiting lists are kept under review and priority is given to urgent cases.
