Bernard Allen
Question:262 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to introduce procedures where all new parents receive a visit from a public health nurse having presented for maternity services. [27030/99]
Written Answers. - Maternity Services.
The provision of services by public health nurses is the responsibility of the health boards. There is, at present, a system in operation whereby health boards are notified of discharges from maternity units on the day of the discharge. Within 24 to 48 hours of a notification being received a visit by a public health nurse is arranged.
The report of the maternity and infant care scheme review group made a number of recommendations in relation to services under this scheme. One of the recommendations is that when an expectant mother applies for services under the scheme, and indicates that she wishes to be contacted by the public health nurse during her pregnancy, there should be an agreed level of service provided by the public health nurse. Health boards are currently in the process of implementing the review group's recommendations.