Vol. 495 No. 4
235 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children on the waiting list for throat and tonsil operations in the Midland Health Board area; the corresponding figures for each of the last three years; and the initiative, if any, he proposes to reduce waiting time for these patients. [20174/98]
237 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children on the waiting list for hip operations in the Midland Health Board area; the corresponding figures for each of the last three years; and the initiative, if any, he proposes to reduce waiting time for these patients. [20176/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 235 and 237 together.
The information requested by the Deputy in the format collected by my Department is set out in the table below. The information relates to children waiting for the procedures in question for at least three months. The Deputy will note that there was no waiting list for children's orthopaedic procedures in the period ending 30 June 1998.
The figures relating to orthopaedics for children primarily comprise follow-up treatments for broken limbs, knee injuries, corrections to toes, and treatment of trigger thumbs.
|
Specialty |
June 1998 |
December 1997 |
December 1996 |
|
Orthopaedics |
0 |
67 |
23 |
|
Grommets |
39 |
25 |
28 |
|
Tonsils-Adenoids |
361 |
368 |
235 |
|
Other ENT procedures |
133 |
122 |
115 |
236 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children on the waiting list for orthodontic operations in the Midland Health Board area; the corresponding figures for each of the last three years; and the initiative, if any, he proposes to reduce waiting time for these patients. [20175/98]
The provision of orthodontic services for eligible persons in the Midland Health Board area and the maintenance of waiting lists is the statutory responsibility of the Midland Health Board. I have been advised by the board that the number of patients on the waiting lists for orthodontic treatment is 658. The numbers on the waiting list at the end of 1995, 1996 and 1997 were 711, 596 and 707, respectively.
The health board orthodontic services are being developed in accordance with the dental health action plan. The plan provides for the development by each health board of a consultant-led orthodontic service. A consultant-led orthodontic service ensures a service of high quality and high service levels. I understand the Midland Health Board is continuing its efforts to recruit a consultant orthodontist.
