Michael Creed
Question:166 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children if any of the health boards have funded surgery abroad for persons suffering from gender identity disorder; and the Department's policy in this regard. [13147/99]
Written Answers. - Gender Identity Disorder.
Michael Creed
Question:167 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children if his Department has carried out an assessment of the number of patients requiring medical care for gender identity disorder; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there are only two doctors in the State treating this condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13148/99]
The provision of resources for the treatment of individuals suffering from gender identity disorder or for the referral abroad of patients for gender realignment surgery is a matter for individual health boards. My Department has not carried out any assessment of the number of patients involved. I have asked the chief executive officer of each board to respond directly to the Deputy.