Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 December 2019
354. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health the number of patients who were affected by the scan scandal in University Hospital Kerry who have passed away to date; and when he will meet with the bereaved families that wish to meet with him as committed to on numerous occasions. [49859/19]
View answerMy Department and I have sought to be kept regularly informed regarding the Radiological Look-back Review which took place at University Hospital Kerry in 2017 and 2018. The report of this review was completed and published in December 2018.
My Department has been assured by the HSE and the South/South West Hospital Group that implementation of the report's recommendations is underway and that they are receiving the priority they require.
I wish to once again express heartfelt sympathies to the patients and their families. My absolute priority remains ensuring their confidentiality is respected. On an ongoing basis, my officials have been assured by the South/South West Hospital Group that all affected patients have received or are receiving the care they need. I accept that this has been distressing time for those involved.
I have made commitments to travel to visit health services in the Kerry area and plan to do so in the near future. Planning for my visit is underway.
In relation to the patient cases covered by the review, I have referred the Deputy's question to the HSE for direct reply.
