Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 8 Jul 1992

Vol. 422 No. 4

Written Answers. - Hip Operations Waiting List.

Edward Nealon

Question:

169 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Health if he will outline (1) the number of people waiting for hip operations in the North-Western Health Board area and (2) the average length of time a person is on the waiting list; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Connell):

Hip operations in the North-Western Health Board area are provided at Sligo General Hospital and Letterkenny General Hospital.

A new orthopaedic unit opened at Letterkenny General Hospital in April, 1992 which has reduced the waiting time for orthopaedic procedures in the North-Western Health Board area.

Priority is given to urgent cases in scheduling surgery for the operations. I have been informed by the North-Western Health Board that 228 people are awaiting hip operations and that the average length of time a person is on the waiting list is 9 months.