Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 16 Oct 1991

Vol. 411 No. 1

Written Answers. - Ophthalmic Treatment.

Enda Kenny

Question:

529 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health if additional consultant ophthalmic surgeons and junior staff can be appointed to deal with patients on waiting lists for optical treatment (details supplied); if he will make extra resources available to deal with this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

The Deputy will appreciate that the admission of a patient to hospital for ophthalmic treatment is a matter for the hospital authority and the consultant in charge of the case. Waiting lists are kept under regular review and priority is given to urgent cases.

Should any patient feel that their condition has deteriorated, they should contact their general practitioner who will be in the best position to stress the urgency of the case to the consultant concerned.

I am aware that the Western Health Board have proposals for a range of service developments, including ophthalmic services. Their rate of implementation, including the appointment of additional consultants and other staff, is primarily a matter for the board themselves, given the priority rating they attach to them and the resources available to the board.