Paul McGrath
Question:87 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Health the number of people awaiting hip operations in County Westmeath at 1 January in each of the years 1990 to 1995; and the waiting time for hip operations in the midlands. [3997/95]
Written Answers - Waiting Period for Hip Operations.
Limerick East): I am advised by the Midland Health Board that the number of patients awaiting hip replacements in its catchment area in respect of the following years on 1 January was as follows: 1993, 106; 1994, 39; 1995, 115. Figures are not available prior to 1993.
The Midland Health Board appointed a third orthopaedic consultant in January 1994 and additional out-patient clinics have been provided since then. This has resulted in additional people being put on the in-patient waiting list and a consequent increase in the number on the 1995 list. Information relating to approximate waiting times is not routinely collected by my Department.