Vol. 558 No. 1
348 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath will be admitted to the Mater Hospital to have a hip replacement operation car ried out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23412/02]
I understand that the person referred to by the Deputy is awaiting admission to the Mater Private Hospital. I have no function in relation to the provision of services in private hospitals. I would therefore suggest that the Deputy or the person named by the Deputy contact the Mater Private Hospital directly to ascertain the position.
349 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps he will take to ensure an early appointment for a person (details supplied) in County Wexford whose name has been placed under the treatment purchase scheme for an operation on their spine at a clinic (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23413/02]
I have had inquiries made and I understand that the patient concerned has agreed to be treated under the national treatment purchase fund. The patient's medical records were sent to the hospital referred to by the Deputy on 24 October 2002.
I have been informed that the patient has been assigned to an orthopaedic surgeon who is on leave until 29 November 2002. On his return, an appointment will be made for the patient and an admission date for surgery will then be agreed.
