James O'Connor
Question:772. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Health if he will address matters raised in correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50651/21]
View answerHealth Services
Questions (772)
Written answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Health Services
Questions (773)
Michael Creed
Question:773. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health the appropriate next step he considers with regard to an incident (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50656/21]
View answerWritten answers
I would like to express my deepest sympathies to the families affected by this distressing incident which occurred at the Mortuary Department of Cork University Hospital.
As outlined during the Dáil Debate on 30th September, the way in which these peri-natal organs were disposed of is unacceptable and should not have happened. I am very cognisant of the paramount importance of dignity and respect for these parents who have experienced the loss of a child. I am committed to ensuring that there is learning across the health service to prevent such events happening again.
Within the public health service, when an incident occurs, it is important that the health service where the incident occurred is responsible for ensuring that the incident is appropriately investigated, so that the service can learn from what went wrong to improve services in the future.
The HSE and South/South West Hospital Group have advised my Department that this incident is being managed in line with the HSE’s Incident Management Framework. This incident was escalated to the hospital’s Safety Incident Management Team (SIMT) when it was identified. Following an initial assessment, the SIMT commissioned two types of review: a Systems Analysis Review (with external subject matter expertise) and a Regional Perinatal Service Requirement Review
The purpose of the Systems Analysis Review is to find out what happened and why, and what can be done to reduce the risk of it happening again. This review should be completed by early November and my Department will engage with the HSE regarding the implementation of recommendations arising. The review findings and recommendations will be shared with the wider HSE for learning.
In relation to the Perinatal Service Requirement Review the HSE advise that a status report from the Regional Perinatal Services Requirement Review is expected within 4 weeks.
My Department is advised that the HSE, South/South West Hospital Group, Cork University Hospital and Cork University Maternity Hospital have apologised to the bereaved families and very much regret the incident. The HSE informed my Department that open disclosure occurred with the parents, and, in line with the HSE’s Incident Management Framework, the families have been encouraged to participate in the ongoing review process to ensure that their experience is incorporated so that there is learning and improvement from this incident.
My Department is advised that at the time that the incident was identified, all families were offered the support of the bereavement and pregnancy loss service that have supported these families prior to this issue.
My Department will continue to engage with the HSE in relation to progress on this matter.
Mental Health Services
Questions (774)
Alan Kelly
Question:774. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the number of secure mental health places that exist in the State; the locations of same; the number taken up as of 12 October 2021; and the number that are vacant by location in tabular form. [50657/21]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Dental Services
Questions (775)
Paul Donnelly
Question:775. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Health the primary care centres or health centres that are currently accepting emergency walk in dentistry services in tabular form. [50664/21]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Hospital Staff
Questions (776)
Paul Donnelly
Question:776. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Health the number of consultant paediatric ophthalmologists currently working in the public health services in each of the past four years in tabular form [50665/21]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy, as soon as possible.
Mental Health Services
Questions (777)
Paul Donnelly
Question:777. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Health the hospitals that can treat patients who suffer with agoraphobia in tabular form. [50666/21]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Hospital Facilities
Questions (778)
John Paul Phelan
Question:778. Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Minister for Health the current status and projected timeframe for a new build hospital (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50672/21]
View answerWritten answers
As the Health Service Executive is responsible for the delivery of public healthcare infrastructure projects, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly in relation to this matter.
Health Services
Questions (779)
Paul McAuliffe
Question:779. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Health the cost of the type 2 diabetes cycle of care programme since its inception; the number of persons that currently avail of the programme; the number of general practitioners that provide the programme; if the programme has been evaluated; if an audit of the programme has been completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50674/21]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Health Services
Questions (780)
Paul McAuliffe
Question:780. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Health if he will extend the type 2 diabetes cycle of care programme to all persons with type 2 diabetes; his views on whether it is equitable that persons with type 2 diabetes without a GMS or GP visit card but who otherwise meet the HSE criteria for uncomplicated type 2 diabetes to be managed in primary care, are excluded from the programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50675/21]
View answerWritten answers
In October 2015, the Diabetes cycle of care programme was introduced nationally by the HSE. Under this programme, adult GMS patients, those who hold a medical card or GP visit card, with a diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes are eligible to be managed as part of the programme by their GP.
The 2019 GP Agreement introduced the chronic disease management programme for GMS patients who have one or more specific chronic diseases, of which Type 2 Diabetes is one. The structured programme commenced in 2020 and is being rolled out to all adult GMS patients over four years (2020 to 2023). This year the programme has been rolled out to those aged 65 years and over. The chronic disease management programme will replace the Diabetes cycle of care programme as it is rolled out.
People who cannot, without undue hardship, arrange for the provision of medical services for themselves and their dependents may be entitled to a medical card. In the assessment process, the HSE can take into account medical costs incurred by an individual or a family. People who are not eligible for a medical card may still be able to avail of a GP visit card.
There is currently no plan to extend type 2 diabetes care under the chronic disease management programme to patients who do not hold a medical or GP visit card.
While Type 2 diabetic patients who do not hold a medical card or GP visit card are not eligible under the Diabetes cycle of care or chronic disease management programmes, diabetes is one of the conditions covered by the Long Term Illness Scheme. Under this scheme, patients with diabetes can receive drugs, medicines, and medical and surgical appliances directly related to the treatment of their illness free of charge, regardless of whether they hold a medical card.
Disability Services
Questions (781)
Willie O'Dea
Question:781. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there are only three neurology nurse specialists based at the mid-west regional centre for neurology in UHL instead of the recommended 11; his plans to deal with this shortfall; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50686/21]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Disability Services
Questions (782)
Michael Moynihan
Question:782. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Health the supports provided to assist adult day services for persons with disabilities to return to full capacity by 22 October 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48708/21]
View answerWritten answers
Day services re-opened at 39% capacity at service locations throughout August and early September of 2020, and by end of January 2021 this had increased to 51%. The combination of supports in the location, outreach supports, and remote supports provides an overall quantum of support to service users of over 60% at the end of January. The increase in day service capacity was supported by additional funding of €30 million provided in Budget 2021 to increase capacity in buildings and provide extra staff. This funding provided an increase in day services by an average of one day a week for 14,940 people against September 2020 service levels.
I was very pleased to announce last month that adult day services for people with disabilities will return to full capacity by October 22nd, in line with our COVID 19 response ‘Reframing the Challenge’ roadmap for the lifting of restrictions.
Day service providers have been requested to develop their individual day service location roadmaps to increase the level of day service provision to 100% restoration for each day service user by October 22nd.
Infection prevention and control measures that have been introduced to support the safe delivery of adult disability day services since the onset of COVID 19 will remain in place after October 22nd. These arrangements include risk assessments, enhanced environmental hygiene, and pod like arrangements in day service locations. Mask wearing will remain in place in day services, except for those who are exempt from wearing a face covering.
I also note that on 2nd September, also in line with the government statement on ‘Reframing the Challenge’, the HSE issued guidance to all providers that day service transport can now return to 100% capacity, with all relevant infection prevention and control measures still to be observed, including the wearing of face coverings where possible and appropriate for service users.
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Disability Services
Questions (783)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Question:783. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if additional funding will be made available in Budget 2022 for respite provision for children and adults with a disability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48514/21]
View answerWritten answers
The Deputy will be aware that under the 2021 National Service Plan, the HSE has committed to developing an additional respite house in each CHO area – 9 in total. This investment will add 10,400 additional respite nights in a full year. In addition, in 2021 HSE funded services provided a range of alternative respite projects including Saturday clubs, breakaway holidays and summer camp activities to support families. The HSE is also providing 214 intensive respite support packages to children and young adults this year.
I am keenly aware of the critical importance of respite for the loved ones and families of those with a disability. I can confirm that additional funding for Respite Services has been secured in Budget 2022 as part of a package of €105m provided for our disability services in 2022. This additional funding will further build disability service capacity including our respite services in each CHO for children and adults, as well as providing alternative models of respite. Further details will be published as part of the HSE National Service Plan.
Question No. 784 answered with Question No. 712.
Assisted Human Reproduction
Questions (785)
Pearse Doherty
Question:785. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health if it is envisaged that the assisted human reproduction Bill will legislate for the mother's name to be included on the birth certificate in the case of a child born through altruistic domestic surrogacy; and if this will be applied retrospectively to the birth certificates of children already born in this way. [50719/21]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy will be aware, drafting of a bill on assisted human reproduction (AHR) and associated areas of research is ongoing by Department of Health officials, in conjunction with the Office of the Attorney General. This legislation encompasses the regulation for the first time of a wide range of practices undertaken in this jurisdiction, including domestic altruistic surrogacy.
The surrogacy provisions of the Bill outline the specific conditions under which surrogacy in Ireland will be permitted and sets out a court-based mechanism through which the parentage of a child born through surrogacy may be transferred from the surrogate to the intending parent(s). Where the Court grants a Parental Order in respect in respect of a child born as a result of a surrogacy agreement, the Court will send a copy of the Parental Order to an tArd-Chláraitheoir who can issue the necessary certificate.
Publication of the AHR Bill is a priority for the Department and the Government, and a commitment to enact this legislation is included in the Programme for Government, “Our Shared Future”. This Department and the Office of the Attorney General will continue to engage intensively over the next few months to finalise this complex legislation.
The question of whether provision should be made for the retrospective assignment of parentage in respect of children already born through surrogacy arrangements raises complex legal issues that come under the remit of a number of Government Departments and which will require detailed examination.
Hospital Staff
Questions (786)
Michael McNamara
Question:786. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Health when the eight extra neurology nurse specialists will be appointed for University Hospital Limerick in view of a campaign by an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50737/21]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Primary Care Centres
Questions (787)
Duncan Smith
Question:787. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Health the status of the primary care centre in Swords, County Dublin as of October 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43955/21]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Health Services
Questions (788)
Duncan Smith
Question:788. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Health his views on the waiting times of 18 months for a public patient to access a breast check examination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45966/21]
View answerWritten answers
BreastCheck, the national breast cancer screening programme, is currently operating and inviting women for screening. Due to the impact of Covid-19 and the pauses in screening in 2020 and again earlier this year, BreastCheck appointments have been delayed. It will take approximately 3 years to get through this current screening round, when it normally takes about 2 years. However, this is still within international norms.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and BreastCheck is running a campaign which encourages women to be breast aware, know the symptoms of breast cancer and the risk factors for developing breast cancer. The campaign also explains about the impact of Covid-19 on services and provides advice for women about managing their screening appointments.
The National Action Plan on Covid-19 identified the continued provision of cancer care as a priority. Cancer services continue to operate in line with guidance issued by the HSE's National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP).
All Symptomatic Breast Disease (SBD) clinics remained open and accepting referrals during the Covid-19 pandemic. In light of Covid, clinical priority was necessarily given to referrals triaged as urgent. Symptomatic Breast Disease clinics had to reduce capacity in line with guidelines on social distancing and infection prevention & control measures.
The NCCP is continuing to closely monitor trends in numbers coming forward to diagnostic services, and the level of attendances for appointments for treatment.
- from January–September this year, GP e-referrals for breast cancer are at 130% of 2019 (pre-Covid) activity; and
- attendances at urgent Symptomatic Breast Disease clinics from January–August 2021 (16,211) are at 115% of 2019 levels (14,127).
As part of Budget 2021, an extra €20m was allocated for the continued implementation of the National Cancer Strategy this year. Additional funding of €12m has also been allocated this year for the restoration of cancer services to 95% of 2019 (pre-Covid) levels. This funding is being used to support hospitals in addressing backlogs, extending clinic times, providing additional clinics, increasing diagnostic capacity and providing locum/temporary support.
I have now secured a further €20m in Budget 2022 to progress the delivery of the National Cancer Strategy and this will have a significant impact on access to cancer diagnostics, treatment and support to patients across their cancer journey.
Drug and Alcohol Testing
Questions (789)
Cian O'Callaghan
Question:789. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Health if he will increase the availability of drug testing of legally prohibited drugs as part of an overall strategy of harm reduction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50854/21]
View answerWritten answers
The National Drugs Strategy, Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery, ‘A health-led response to drug and alcohol use in Ireland 2017-2025’, sets out a health-led approach to drug use. Strengthening harm reduction responses to high-risk drug use is an action within the strategy. The Programme for Government also commits to increase and support drug testing services, particularly at festivals.
The HSE, in conjunction with the Dept of Health, established a Working Group to review evidence in relation to drug trends and health responses applicable to the night-time economy and drug checking provision to help inform recommendations and to develop implementation plans to address these areas. The group was comprised of stakeholders from across the sector, which was intentionally broad in order to reflect the reality that this issue impacts on a number of Departments, agencies and drug user groups in Ireland. An Garda Síochána and Forensic Science Ireland attended meetings in an advisory capacity.
The report of the Working Group was published in September. It contains a series of recommendations which will inform future direction in this area, one of which includes a pilot project to implement and evaluate drug monitoring strategies through a ‘back of house’ system.
This system involves festival attendees discard of substances in a secure location for analysis. Following analysis on compounds, risk communication strategies can be implemented in the event of substances appearing that pose an extra threat to life. This would also provide market surveillance and may provide health benefits that could improve public health and harm minimisation responses.
The Working Group’s report states that drug checking initiatives need to be part of a holistic process, embedded within a tailored structure so that analysis is not conducted in isolation and is coupled with other appropriate harm reduction measures such as brief interventions, counselling, onward referral, data gathering exercises and on-going drug market monitoring for health services. When implemented as part of a wider structure, drug analysis can engage with hard-to-reach groups, identify particularly dangerous substances and support people who use drugs to reduce the harms to their health.
In line with the recommendations in the working group report, I secured additional funding to expand harm reduction responses to high-risk drug use associated with the night-time economy in Budget 2022.
As some of its recommendations pertain to a variety of Government Departments and State agencies, I will engage with the Minister for Justice and Equality and the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media to consider the next steps.
Hospital Appointments Status
Questions (790)
Éamon Ó Cuív
Question:790. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) will receive a date for a CT scan in Galway University Hospital taking into account the exceptional circumstances in this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50879/21]
View answerWritten answers
Under the Health Act 2004, the Health Service Executive (HSE) is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. Section 6 of the HSE Governance Act 2013 bars the Minister for Health from directing the HSE to provide a treatment or a personal service to any individual or to confer eligibility on any individual.
In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Dental Services
Questions (791)
Éamon Ó Cuív
Question:791. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Health when an urgent dental appointment will be issued to a person (details supplied) in Shantalla Health Centre, Galway in view of the person's exceptional medical circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50882/21]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.