The Department recognises the financial challenges for many families in the context of the delays in accessing assessments and therapies for their children.
It is for this reason that the HSE has been allocated over €11.5m in funding in Budget 2023 for the outsourcing of assessments. The ability of the HSE to outsource assessments can greatly assist the enhancement of Children’s Development Network Teams (CDNTs) by way of ensuring they have time and capacity to conduct therapy interventions rather than solely concentrating on assessments.
While the Hubs have been established in each CHO, Minister Rabbitte awaits details on effectiveness of the Hubs from the HSE. The Hubs are designed to provide a dedicated assessment function and seek to preserve the CDNT so that each team can continue to deliver therapy services.
The Minister is keen to establish the effectiveness of the newly established Regional Hubs and and is continuously engaged with senior leadership in the HSE on these and other issues.
The Minister is keeping an open mind on any option that may assist in benefitting families of children with complex needs and is actively working on measures to reduce waiting lists, ensuring that children and families are at the forefront of consideration of the HSE.