Michael Ring
Question:445 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will undergo ophthalmic surgery in Galway Regional Hospital. [21270/01]
Written Answers. - Ophthalmic Services.
The provision of medical services in this instance is the responsibility of the Western Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer of the board to investigate the position in relation to this case and reply to the Deputy directly.
Michael Ring
Question:446 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the ophthalmic services which are available in County Mayo both for the elderly and school-going children. [21271/01]
I am advised by the Western Health Board that it is experiencing difficulties in recruiting ophthalmologists for County Mayo. The board has, however, secured the services of two sessional ophthalmologists pending the making of a permanent appointment. The board is using a combination of sessional ophthalmologists, private ophthalmologists and opticians to cater for children referrals. All eligible adults can avail of the adult sight testing scheme and where necessary they are referred to sessional or private ophthalmologists.