Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 January 2024
326. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health to indicate the degree to which provision is being made for patients in need of scoliosis treatment as soon as possible in the current year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2323/24]
View answer328. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health to indicate the proposals to reduce waiting lists for patients expecting scoliosis treatment in the shorter term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2325/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 326 and 328 together.
I want to acknowledge that waiting lists for scoliosis and spina bifida services are unacceptably long. I am acutely conscious of the burden that this places on patients and their families.
I have committed €19 million under the 2022 and 2023 Waiting List Action Plans to tackle these waiting lists. This investment has supported an increase in the number of spinal procedures undertaken in both 2022 and 2023, 509 and 464 respectively, compared to 380 in 2019. So, while waiting lists remain far too long, it is fair to acknowledge that there is an increase in the number of patients being treated. My Department and the HSE are working hard to make progress in this area including improvements to the organisation, management, and delivery of the services.
In 2024, I have secured €332 million for the 2024 Waiting List Action Plan, under which scoliosis and spina bifida services are a priority area. This 2024 Waiting List Action Plan is currently being developed by my Department and the HSE.
