Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 June 2018
931. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Health the length of time a person (details supplied) is awaiting a dermatologist appointment in Tallaght University Hospital; if the waiting time is usual or excessive; the waiting time to see a dermatologist in the hospital; the number of persons awaiting an appointment with a dermatologist; the steps being taken to alleviate the waiting times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25601/18]
View answerImproving waiting times for hospital procedures and outpatient appointments is a key commitment in the Programme for Government.
Each year 3.3 million patients attend Hospital Outpatient clinics for appointments, with demand for services growing year-on-year. A key component of the management of waiting lists by hospitals is the categorisation of patients by clinical priority to ensure that all patients receive care in timely and clinically appropriate matter.
A number of steps are being taken to ensure the lists are accurate and these efforts are to intensify in the coming months. The HSE is working with the NTPF and my Department to finalise an Outpatient Waiting List Action Plan focused on improving overall use of resources and ensuring timely access to treatment and care for our patients.
According to the latest NTPF figures, there are currently 2868 on the Dermatology Outpatient waiting list for Tallaght Hospital and of these 47% are waiting 9 months or less. See table below for breakdown of waiting times.
I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly in regard to the individual patient enquiry.
|
Total |
0-3 Months |
3-6 Months |
6-9 Months |
9-12 Months |
12-15 Months |
15-18 Months |
Total 18+ Months |
|
2868 |
672 |
380 |
293 |
311 |
250 |
271 |
691 |
