Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 November 2020
859. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health if steps can be taken to address the fact that in just one year the national gender service waiting list has gone from 15 months to more than three years; if immediate action will be taken to address the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37094/20]
View answerIt is recognised that waiting times for scheduled appointments and procedures have been impacted as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic the HSE had to take measures to defer most scheduled care activity in March, April, and May of this year. 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 the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) in accordance with the advice of the World Health Organisation.
Patient safety remains at the centre of all hospital activity and elective care scheduling. To ensure services are provided in a safe, clinically-aligned and prioritised way, hospitals are following HSE clinical guidelines and protocols. The HSE continues to optimise productivity through alternative work practices such the use of alternative settings including private hospitals, community facilities and alternative outpatient settings.
The National Gender Service provides specialist support to people who are seeking medical or surgical interventions to help them affirm their gender. This service has existed in some form in St Columcille’s Hospital for 20 years. Currently, due to the organic development of the Service over time, the National Gender Service operates over two sites: St Columcille’s Hospital and St John of God Community Services.
In order to provide this Service, a specialised multidisciplinary team (MDT) is needed to deliver effective, safe, individualised care. The National Gender Service delivers this care via a Model of Care that incorporates a holistic individualised MDT assessment, support pathways, and gender affirming interventions.
In relation to the particular query raised by the Deputy concerning the National Gender Service, as this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
