Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 November 2020
894. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Health the treatment options available for lymphoedema patients at Letterkenny University Hospital; his plans to ensure patients attending Letterkenny University Hospital can access necessary and appropriate treatment for lymphoedema; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38576/20]
View answer895. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Health the status of the implementation of the model of care report on lymphoedema and lipoedema treatment in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38577/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 894 and 895 together.
The HSE has initiated implementation of the Model of Care for Lymphoedema and Lipoedema through two proof of concept services - one for a primary care specialist lymphoedema service in Laois/Offaly (Community Healthcare Organisation 8 area) and the other for early detection in acute services (Mater Hospital). The recruitment of staff is on-going in Laois/Offaly, though this has been challenging particularly in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. The early detection initiative in the Mater is progressing.
As recommended in the Model of Care, National Lymphoedema Clinical Guidelines are currently being developed and are due to be completed in mid-2021. In addition, work is ongoing on a GP education eLearning module which will be finalised shortly.
Patients in Donegal are referred to lymphoedema services in the community in line with the Model of Care.
