Vol. 563 No. 5
200 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has made provision to the Western Health Board for the recruitment of staff for the operation of cardiac services at UCHG; when the new cardiac unit will become operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8458/03]
Since 2000, funding of €2.99 million has been allocated to University College Hospital, Galway, UCHG, under the cardiovascular health strategy. A number of additional posts have been funded and services have been developed as follows: the appointment of two additional consultant cardiologists by the end of 2003 in line with the interim recommendations of the joint working group on consultant cardiology requirements as well as the necessary infrastructure-facilities required to support these appointments. These two appointments will double the consultant cardiology manpower in UCHG and will benefit the region's cardiology service. Eight beds are now open in the coronary care unit, additional staff have been employed and equipment upgraded enabling enhanced quality of care to patients.
Services have also been developed by the appointment of two cardiac technicians which has increased access to cardiac diagnostic services; a chest pain clinic and the appointment of supporting staff to provide a structured link between the primary care and hospital settings and the rapid diagnosis of angina, enabling further diagnostic tests and treatment as appropriate; phases one, two and three of cardiac rehabilitation services and the employment of a multidisciplinary team to support these services, including a health promotion officer and a smoking cessation officer.
In respect of cardiac surgery, I understand from the Western Health Board that the newly built theatre and critical care complex will be completed in July 2003. The question of providing resources for staff recruitment will be considered in the context of further discussions between officials of the Western Health Board and the Department of Health and Children.
