Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 November 2016
465. Deputy Kevin O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health if he will review the criteria in which certain persons (details supplied) awaiting cataract procedures with an ophthalmologist can avail of the National Treatment Purchase Fund at an earlier stage. [34527/16]
View answerIn relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.
The following revised reply was received on 30 November 2016
Introducing measures that will have an impact on waiting lists remains a priority for this Government. At my request in August 2016, the HSE provided an Action Plan which focuses on reducing the numbers of patients waiting the longest, through adherence to chronological scheduling, clinical validation and performance improvement.
Budget 2017 provides for the treatment of our longest-waiting patients. €20 million is being allocated to the NTPF rising to €55 million in 2018. Planning of this initiative is at an advanced stage by the NTPF, my Department and the HSE.
In addition to this, the HSE published the Winter Initiative Plan 2016-17 in September. The HSE has committed to use plart of the Winter Initiative Contingency Fund to further progress treatment of patients waiting the longest, in support of the Action Plan, including patients waiting for cataract procedures.
With regard to the particular query in relation to the issuing of driving licences, road safety policy and legislation is the responsibility of the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport.
