Vol. 562 No. 6
57 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Health and Children if studies have been carried out on the operation of radiotherapy units in provincial areas of certain countries such as British Columbia in Canada; and if such units require the same degree of finance as the more conventional units. [6719/03]
I have asked officials in my Department to examine this matter and I will write to the Deputy under separate cover.
I established the expert review group on radiotherapy services to examine the appropriate future development of radiotherapy services. It conducted a national assessment of needs for radiotherapy services having regard to the demography and epidemiology of cancer and the gaps in current service provision. I am advised that its report will be informed by international experience in relation to service provision, manpower requirements, and the organisation of radiation and oncology services which best ensure a quality service to meet the current and anticipated needs of oncology patients nationally.
The group's report is currently in the final stages of drafting and is due to be submitted to me shortly. Following its consideration I will submit proposals for consideration by Government on the provision of additional radiotherapy services.
