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Health Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 September 2020

Tuesday, 8 September 2020

Questions (1063, 1064, 1065)

David Cullinane

Question:

1063. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health the annual cost of delivering the psycho-oncology service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21325/20]

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David Cullinane

Question:

1064. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of increasing annual spend on the psycho-oncology service by 10%; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21326/20]

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David Cullinane

Question:

1065. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health the breakdown of funding for psycho-oncology services by staffing and other associated costs, respectively; the number of whole-time equivalent posts working in the area by profession; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21327/20]

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Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1063 to 1065, inclusive, together.

I have been advised by the NCCP that the cost for delivering the psycho-oncology service in the eight adult cancer centres and the Children’s Hospital is €4 million annually.

The Centres covered by this service are:

- Mater University Hospital

- Beaumont Hospital

- St. James’s University Hospital

- St. Vincent’s University Hospital

- Cork University Hospital

- Galway University Hospital

- University Hospital Limerick

- Waterford Regional Hospital

- Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin

This figure also covers access to liaison psychiatry, psychology and social work service in some hospitals across the country. St. Luke’s Hospital service costs an additional €500,000 per annum.

With the current annual cost for the provision of the psycho-oncology service at €4 million in the eight adult cancer centres and Children's Hospital, an increase of 10% on annual spending towards this service would require an additional €400,000. Accounting for St. Luke's Hospital service as well the total increase would amount to €450,000 in total.

The current national breakdown of whole time equivalent posts working in the area by profession is:

Dedicated Psychiatrist on Psycho-Oncology Team

1

Access to Liaison Psychiatry in Acute Cases

5.9

Dedicated Principal Psychologist on Psycho-Oncologist Team

3.7

Access to Liaison Psychology in Acute Cases

2.2

Dedicated Senior Psycho-Oncologist

7

Dedicated Social Worker

2.8

Access to Social Worker in Acute Cases

10

Clinical Nurse Specialist

3

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