Michael P. Kitt
Question:81 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Minister for Health if radiotherapy in the western region could be included in the National Cancer Strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6714/97]
Written Answers. - Radiotherapy Services.
Limerick East): Radiotherapy services are currently available in St. Luke' Hospital, Dublin and in Cork University Hospital. Due to the nature and very high cost of radiotherapy it is necessary to confine the resources available for the service to a limited number of locations.
When preparing the national cancer strategy, which I published in November, I carefully considered the question of locating a third radiotherapy centre in the western region. The expert advice available to me was that there must be a sufficient volume of patients for the service to maintain the high level of medical and technical expertise needed for such a high-technology unit. Unfortunately, the provision of a radiotherapy service in the western region would not appear to be appropriate at the moment on demographic grounds, but there are, of course, other considerations which would have to be taken into account.
However, the national cancer strategy concludes that there may be scope for developing radiotherapy services in Galway at a future stage. It indicates that: "The case for it will be kept under review in light of demographic trends, costs and expert advice."
I am conscious of the need to ensure that there are adequate provisions for radiotherapy centres so that they can meet the demand placed on them. With this in mind I have made funding available for significant development projects in the two existing centres — St. Luke's Hospital and Cork University Hospital.
I will keep the question of locating a radiotherapy service in the western region under review. I would, however, point out to the Deputy that it would not be feasible to contemplate commencing the service until the major capital project to upgrade certain aspects of the hospital has been completed. The contract for this project is being signed later this week.