Brian O'Shea
Question:223 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children the proposals, if any, he has to provide a hospice unit in Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12771/99]
Written Answers. - Palliative Care.
The South-Eastern Health Board has informed me that, in accordance with its cancer strategy, the health board does not propose to establish a centralised model of palliative care. The health board's proposal is for a dispersed model of service around the four acute hospitals and the use of district hospital beds throughout the board's area.
I understand that it is the policy of the South-Eastern Health Board that most patients in need of palliative care will be cared for at home or as near to home as possible. The existing palliative care service and the hospice-home care service within the board are very well integrated between the voluntary supported hospice nurses and the board's own professional staff. The health board is currently in the process of recruiting a consultant in palliative care and the hospice-home care service will come under his-her direction.