Medical Aids and Appliances Provision

Thursday, 11 June 2015

Questions (154, 155)

Ruth Coppinger

Question:

154. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health if he will undertake a review of wheelchair policy in order to greatly improve the quality of the service. [22729/15]

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155. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the research by a person (details supplied) on wheelchair provision and maintenance; if his Department will be implementing changes to policy regarding the provision and maintenance of wheelchairs in order to address the concerns raised in the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22730/15]

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Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

I propose to take Questions Nos. 154 and 155 together.

The provision and maintenance of aids and appliances, including wheelchairs, is a service matter for the Health Service Executive. Accordingly, I have arranged for the Deputy's questions to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy. If the Deputy has not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, she can contact my Private Office and they will follow the matter up with the HSE.