Liam Lawlor
Question:90 Mr. Lawlor asked the Minister for Health when he will appoint a medical oncologist to the Southern Health Board region. [7542/95]
Written Answers. - Medical Oncologist Appointment.
Limerick East): There are currently no proposals with my Department in relation to the appointment of a medical oncologist in the Southern Health Board region. As the Deputy is no doubt aware, the Comhairle na nOspidéal report on consultant manpower in the Southern Health Board region was published recently. The report is currently being considered by all relevant agencies with a view to prioritising service needs.
Upon coming into office I saw the need to review the delivery of cancer services as an immediate priority. Accordingly, I have established a cancer review group within my Department to look at all aspects of our cancer services. In the course of its examination, the review group will consider the staffing levels required to deliver the optimum level of oncology services throughout the country. The needs of the medical oncology discipline will be considered in this context and having regard to the staffing priorities identified by individual health boards.