asked the Minister for Health if his Department have considered the advantages of a roto-rest bed in nursing severely disabled patients, including a substantially reduced cost in treating such patients; and what action his Department have taken to have this type of bed used more generally for the treatment of such patients.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Roto-rest Bed.
38.
A number of the larger roto-rest beds has been in use at the National Medical Rehabilitation Centre, Dún Laoghaire, for the past few years. The experience so far indicates its significant value in the nursing of patients suffering from certain types of paralytic condition. The number of patients for which the larger bed is necessary is limited but a smaller type has wider application and can be used in nursing patients at home who otherwise would have to remain in hospital. I have approved applications for its use in any case where this was recommended by the appropriate medical authority.
To date five of the smaller type bed have been purchased for home use; two were purchased by health authorities and three privately. There are nine beds in use at institutions other than the National Rehabilitation Centre.
While the use of the roto-rest bed in appropriate cases provides convenience in nursing care and greater comfort for the patient, the evidence so far does not indicate any substantial reduction in the overall cost of treatment. This latter aspect is the subject of continuing study.
Will that study be conducted in consultation with the appropriate medical staff in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital?
I think it would be, yes.
Can the Minister give some idea of the cost of the smaller unit, the smaller bed?
£350—quite a considerable cost.