Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 25 Mar 1993

Vol. 428 No. 3

Written Answers. - Heart Operation Delay.

Phil Hogan

Question:

90 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Health if he will investigate the serious circumstances surrounding the waiting time for a heart operation for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if he will ensure that this patient is admitted to hospital without further delay in view of his deteriorating condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

The patient in question was placed on the waiting list for cardiac surgery in February 1993. The admission of a patient to hospital for cardiac surgery is a clinical decision taken by the consultant concerned. If the patient feels that his condition has deteriorated he should contact his general practitioner who would be in the best position to highlight his case to his consultant.