Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 11 Oct 1994

Vol. 445 No. 6

Written Answers. - Optical Service.

Mary Flaherty

Question:

444 Miss Flaherty asked the Minister for Health the reason a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 has been advised that she must wait for five months for approval for an eye test on her medical card; and if he will make a statement on the delay in this case. [716/94]

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

As the provision of ophthalmic treatment for persons in Dublin is the responsibility of the Eastern Health Board, I have asked the chief executive officer of the Eastern Health Board to reply to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.

In 1993 due to increases in the number of applications for optical services, the board exceeded its allocation and had to create a waiting list. The Eastern Health Board currently has a system in operation which gives priority to applicants with special needs such as persons with certain medical conditions, and every effort is made to ensure that urgent cases are dealt with without delay. There is no waiting list for children needing glasses.

My Department is aware that the Eastern Health Board is concerned regarding some aspects of the sight testing scheme as currently operated. The board is carrying out a detailed examination of the aspects of the scheme which are causing concern. My Department is in contact with the Eastern Health Board and will discuss the matter further on foot of the outcome of the board's examination of the scheme, with a view to ensuring that all persons who need optical services receive them within a reasonable time.