Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 April 2004
538 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if he plans to increase the number of consultant urologists serving in the health system in view of the two year waiting list for diagnosis of cancers in which urologists are specialised. [11407/04]
View answerComhairle na nOspidéal, which is the statutory body with responsibility for regulating the number and type of appointments of consultant medical staff in hospitals providing services under the Health Acts, is currently undertaking an examination of urology services in the country. Future requirements for urology services will be decided on the basis of any recommendations made by Comhairle na nOspidéal in this context.
Since 1997 there has been a cumulative additional investment of €550 million in the development of appropriate treatment and care services for people with cancer. During this period a total of 91 additional consultants have been approved in key areas of cancer care. These include oncologists, histopathologists, radiologists, haematologists, palliative care, radiation oncologists and surgeons with a special interest in breast disease.
