Vol. 529 No. 1
752 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the waiting times for assessment for occupational therapy for every health centre in the Eastern Regional Health Authority area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2590/01]
753 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the extended waiting lists for occupational therapy at Old County Road health centre; the action he will take to resolve this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2591/01]
754 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will hire private occupational therapists to clear the unprecedented waiting lists in community care areas 4 and 5 in the Eastern Regional Health Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2592/01]
755 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12 will receive an urgent visit from an occupational therapist. [2593/01]
756 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12 will be examined for occupational therapy purposes. [2594/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 752 to 756, inclusive, together.
The provision of health related support services, including occupational therapy services, to persons with physical and sensory disabilities is a matter for the relevant health board. Accordingly, the Deputy's questions, including the questions regarding named individuals, have been referred to the chief executive officer of the Eastern Regional Health Authority, with a request that he examine the matter and reply directly to the Deputy, as a matter of urgency.
I am aware that there are staff shortages in the therapy grades in the health service. In order to address these shortages my Department has engaged Dr. Peter Bacon and Associates to undertake a workforce planning study to report on the prospective supply and demand for a number of therapy grades, including occupational therapists. This report is expected within the coming weeks.
The report of the expert group on various health professionals made recommendations in relation to an enhanced career structure for occupational therapists. This has resulted in a large number of occupational therapists being upgraded. It has also led to the creation of a clinical specialist post for the therapy grades. The creation of this grade will allow for career progression for those who do not want to move into management. It will also ensure that clinical expertise is not lost to the professions.
