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Emergency Departments Waiting Times

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 October 2018

Tuesday, 23 October 2018

Questions (117)

Michael Moynihan

Question:

117. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Health the reason 937 persons over 75 years of age had to wait more than 24 hours in the emergency department in hospitals in County Cork during January to August 2018. [43591/18]

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Written answers

I fully acknowledge the distress overcrowded Emergency Departments (EDs) cause to patients, their families and frontline staff working in very challenging working conditions in hospitals throughout the country.

Reflecting the demographic pressures associated with the growth in our aging population, this year has been characterised by high demand for unscheduled care, particularly among the over-75 age group. Patients in this age group are the highest users of most health and social care services, have more complex needs and longer stays in our Acute Hospitals.

I recognise that hospitals are increasingly operating at or above capacity, with year-round demand pressures that are further challenged over the winter months. However, the National Service Plan 2018 includes an expected activity target that 100% of patients aged 75 and over are discharged or admitted within 24 hours of registration. Therefore, any breach of this target in respect of patients in this age cohort is unacceptable.

I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the specific query raised by the Deputy in relation to hospitals in County Cork.

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