Written Answers. - Hospital Services.
Kathleen Lynch
Question:
163
Ms Lynch
asked the
Minister for Health and Children
the reason the report of the expert group on the provision of radiotherapy services across the country has still not been published, more than three years after it was received by his Department; when it is expected that the report will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[17545/03]
Olivia Mitchell
Question:
351
Ms O. Mitchell
asked the
Minister for Health and Children
when his Department will publish the report on radiotherapy by the expert working group; and the reason this report was not published in December 2000 as promised.
[217864/03]
I propose to answer Questions Nos. 163 and 351 together.
As the Deputies are aware, I established the expert working group on radiation oncology services in 2000 to examine and advise me on the appropriate future development of radiation oncology services nationally. The group submitted its report to me on 24 April 2003. In preparing its report, the group 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. All health boards have been afforded the opportunity to meet with and make submissions on a number of occasions to the group.
The report addresses the following key issues. These include access to radiotherapy services, in terms of information, financial access and organisational components of access; the need to provide a high quality, evidence based service; the need to take account of current and new developments in health technology; the requirements of the system in terms of human resources; international norms in relation to service provision, planning and staffing; the organisational development of the services in terms of structures and processes which need to be in place in a radiotherapy facility. The completion of the report took longer than was originally envisaged by the group due to the complexity of the issues involved, the broadly based consultation process undertaken, and the need to reflect fully on the recommendations. In addition, research was commissioned on patient needs and priorities.
Given the significance attached to the report and its implications for the development of radiation oncology services nationally, it is necessary for me to submit the report to the Government. I advised the Dáil of my intentions in this regard on 7 May 2003. It is also necessary that there be consultation at inter departmental level, including with the Department of Finance, prior to consideration by Government. It is anticipated that the report will be considered by Government shortly, after which it will be published.
I accept that the significant under-provision in radiation oncology which exists at present represents a major challenge for the health services. The provision of additional radiation oncology services will be considered in the context of the group's report.
