Michael Ring
Question:355 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when an orthopaedic surgeon will be appointed to Mayo General Hospital for the people of this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4379/03]
Written Answers. - Consultant Appointments.
My Department has provided financial clearance to the Western Health Board for the appointment of three consultant orthopaedic surgeons at Mayo General Hospital. Comhairle na nOspidéal has approved the appointment of the consultants. I understand that the Western Health Board is in the process of recruiting the consultants through the Local Appointments Commission.
Michael Ring
Question:356 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a rheumatologist will be appointed to Mayo General Hospital. [4380/03]
The provision of health services at Mayo General Hospital is the responsibility of the Western Health Board. The board has informed my Department that there is a consultant rheumatology service based at Merlin Park Regional Hospital. Services for patients from all parts of the region, including Mayo, are provided by a consultant led team of medical, nursing, allied health professionals and support staff.
The board has prepared a strategic plan for the development of rheumatology services in the region which proposes the appointment of a rheumatologist at Mayo General Hospital. As the Deputy will be aware, there has been significant investment in acute hospital services in the Western Health Board, including Mayo General Hospital, in recent years. The Western Health Board's service plan for 2003 does not provide for the appointment of a rheumatologist at Mayo General Hospital in 2003.