Health Strategies

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 December 2015

Thursday, 17 December 2015

Questions (423)

Billy Kelleher

Question:

423. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he has received correspondence from the National Vision Coalition calling for the inclusion of a commitment to publish and implement A National Vision Strategy; if he is aware of the report from the coalition entitled Economic Cost and Burden of Eye Diseases and Preventable Blindness in Ireland which indicated that 75% to 80% of blindness is preventable and that blindness and vision impairment cost the State €205 million in 2010, but investment in cost-effective interventions could save up to €76 million per year; and his Department’s estimate of the full-year cost of implementing A National Vision Strategy along the lines recommended by the National Vision Coalition. [45736/15]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

I am aware of the correspondence and the report referred to by the Deputy. Implementation of a vision strategy along the lines recommended by the National Vision Coalition has not been costed by the Department of Health.

There are a range of health services in place aimed at protecting people's eye health and where necessary providing supports to people with visual impairment. These services are based on the goals and principles of Healthy Ireland which aims to improve the health and well-being of the population through a greater emphasis on prevention, early intervention and keeping individuals and communities well. A number of services are provided in primary care and supported by secondary and specialist services for those who need them.

The Primary Care Eye Services Review Group, which was established by the HSE, is due to report in early 2016. It will set out a clear blueprint with recommendations for the delivery of primary care eye services which will ensure a high quality, safe and consistent service for patients. The National Vision Coalition was among the stakeholders consulted by the Review Group. It should be noted that any cost implications of the Review Group recommendations will need to be considered in the context of the financial resources available to the HSE in 2016 and future years.