Bernard Allen
Question:112 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the discussions which have taken place with the Irish Medical Organisation prior to upgrading the on-call facilities of hospitals. [12630/01]
Written Answers - Hospital Services.
As part of last year's agreement with non-consultant hospital doctors, it was agreed that where appropriate, a programme of refurbishment of residences will commence. A joint group comprising of representatives of the Health Service Employers Agency and the Irish Medical Organisation was established to identify and agree on areas for refurbishment on a priority basis.
The Health Service Employers Agency has undertaken a national audit of non-consultant hospital doctor accommodation. This survey found that overall the standard of accommodation is reasonable, with some areas, however, in need of attention. An Irish Medical Organisation questionnaire elicited approximately 23 responses and identified some hospitals where it was claimed that the level of accommodation was not of an acceptable standard.
It has been agreed to work through difficulties which arise with the intention of upgrading or refurbishing on-call residences to an acceptable level.