Rory O'Hanlon
Question:551 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the provision of a dialysis unit at Dundalk Hospital, County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22040/01]
Written Answers. - Hospital Services.
Responsibility for the provision of hospital services at Louth County Hospital, Dundalk rests with the North Eastern Health Board. I have had inquires made of the board and have been advised that a proposal to establish a renal dialysis unit in Louth County Hospital, Dundalk, is under active consideration by the board. The proposal is being progressed in conjunction with hospital management in Daisyhill Hospital, Newry, County Down, and Beaumont Hospital, Dublin. Both of these hospitals provide dialysis services for renal patients resident in the Dundalk area. The proposed development of a dialysis unit at Dundalk Hospital is in line with the North Eastern Health Board's policy of increasing capacity in the region and thereby reducing the need for patients to travel outside their catchment area for treatment.
I would also like to take this opportunity to outline to the Deputy the policy position in relation to the wider development of renal services. I have identified renal services as one of the main acute hospital priorities for development. In this regard, I was pleased to provide additional funding of over £9 million over the last two years to increase capacity in this area.
I accept the need for further investment in the development of this important service. As a consequence, I will shortly be establishing a group to formulate a national strategy for renal services and to develop a framework for future service delivery which will build on the current investment programme.