Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2020
1086. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Health the number of elective procedures and appointments, for example, smear tests, test results and meeting a consultant, that had to be cancelled or deferred in the mid-west region in counties Clare, Limerick and Tipperary in tabular form. [15011/20]
View answerIn response to the Covid-19 pandemic the HSE had to take measures to pause most elective scheduled care activity with effect from the end March 2020. This was to ensure patient safety and that all appropriate resources were made available for Covid-19 related activity and time-critical essential work. This decision was in line with the advice issued by National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) and in accordance with World Health Organisation guidelines, and the National Action Plan.
To ensure services are re-introduced in a safe, clinically-aligned and prioritised way, the HSE launched its Strategic Framework for ‘Service Continuity in a Covid Environment’ on 24th June 2020. Its implementation will ensure service resumption is done in an integrated way. This will involve a phased approach to ensure community services are strengthened. The Framework will also consolidate new ways of working and build on international knowledge. The HSE is currently developing a Service Continuity Roadmap for the resumption of services across the health system. My Department, the HSE and the National Treatment Purchase Fund are currently working together to evaluate the impact of Covid 19 on Scheduled Care waiting lists, in order to be prepared to address pent up demand.
In relation to the particular query raised concerning the deferral or cancellation of procedures and appointments in counties Clare, Limerick and Tipperary, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly.
