Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 16 Feb 1993

Vol. 426 No. 1

Written Answers. - CAT Scan Facilities.

Richard Bruton

Question:

192 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Health the estimated waiting time for a CAT scan in the Mater public hospital; the way this compares with waiting times in other public hospitals and in the Mater private hospital; and if he will make a statement on the plans, if any, to improve CAT scanning facilities for public patients.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

The Mater public hospital has not been accepting routine referrals for CAT scans recently. Only emergency cases are being dealt with at present. This is because the existing CAT scan facility has reached the end of its useful life.

An order was placed for the supply and installation of a replacement CAT scan in the Mater public hospital on 17 November 1992. The funding for this development is being provided by my Department. It is expected that the new scanner will be in operation in the coming months.

The waiting time for routine CAT scans in the four other Dublin public hospitals ranges from two weeks to three months. However, all emergency referrals are dealt with immediately.

With regard to waiting lists at the Mater Private Hospital, I would like to inform the Deputy that I have no function in this matter as the hospital concerned is a private institution.