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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 28 Jun 2001

Vol. 539 No. 3

Written Answers. - Neurological Conditions.

Michael Finucane

Question:

46 Mr. Finucane asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans he has to comprehensively address the issues set out in the two reports of the Neurological Alliance of Ireland on standards of care for people with non-physically disabling and those with disabling neurological conditions, progressive and static. [19357/01]

At the invitation of the Neurological Alliance I recently launched its document, Standards of Care for People with Non Physically Disabling Neurological, and Associated Psychiatric, conditions. This document is the second in a series of three publications produced by the alliance which seeks to address the needs and requirements of fpeople who suffer from a range of neurological conditions.

Last year the Irish Consultant Neurologists Association submitted a report to my Department which identified a need to increase the number of consultant neurologists in this country to meet an increasing demand from people presenting with neurological disorders. The report considered the need for further expansion nationwide, as the nature of neurological practice is changing with new therapies for many disorders becoming available.

Arising from a number of meetings with interest groups, I requested Comhairle na nOspidéal, to conduct a review of neurological services and related issues. The review which is under way has the following terms of reference:

"To examine the existing arrangements for the provision of consultant-level neurology and neurophysiology services nationally and following consultation with the interests concerned, to make recommendations to Comhairle Na nOspidéal on the future organisation and development of neurology and neurophysiology services. The review will focus on updating the 1991 Comhairle report taking into account recent advances in and increasing demand for neurological and neurophysiological services."

The reports prepared by the Neurological Alliance will assist the review by Comhairle na nOspidéal. I look forward to receiving the report from An Chomhairle which will inform future policy and investment decisions in this area.

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