I propose to take Questions Nos. 576, 581 and 582 together.
The HSE National Clinical Programme for Stroke has been in place since early 2010 and has been instrumental in the re-organisation of stroke care in Ireland. The vision of the programme is a modern comprehensive and integrated care pathway for all stroke patients using the best available medical evidence.
Building on the success of the last 10 years, the National Clinical Programme for Stroke is currently completing a new five-year programme of work that will focus on the following four pillars of stroke care:
- Prevention
- Acute Care and Cure
- Rehabilitation and Restoration
- Education and Research
Arising from the National Stroke Register Report (2018) the HSE National Clinical Programme for Stroke has included in its five year stroke strategy a proposal for the reintroduction of a symptom awareness campaign to supplement the significantly improved clinical outcomes that have occurred in stroke care in Ireland over the last 10 years.
On its completion I look forward to working with the HSE on this important programme of work.
With regard to the query raised in respect of numbers of beds, as this is a service matter I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy.