The Minister of State will be aware that, following an independent clinical review, it has been determined that a second cardiac cath lab at University Hospital Waterford (UHW) is not justified. My Department has examined the review in detail and advises that Dr. Herity's analysis and his recommendations are very soundly based and provide a robust evidence base for future decisions regarding invasive cardiology services in the South East. Implementation of Dr. Herity’s report will, I believe, strengthen the provision of safe and sustainable services for patients in the South East.
In relation to current waiting lists for cath lab services, the position is that Dr. Herity recommends investing in UHW to address waiting times and to provide improved access for patients. The additional resources necessary to implement this recommendation, to increase the number of weekly sessions currently provided, will be reflected in the HSE National Service Plan 2017.
Dr. Herity also recommends that some services be provided elsewhere. I have asked my Department to address the implications of this recommendation by undertaking a national review of all primary PCI services with the aim to ensure that as many patients as possible have access on a 24/7 basis to safe and sustainable emergency interventions following a heart attack. I expect the review to be completed by the end of July 2017.
