andMr. O'Higgins asked the Minister for Health how many patients have undergone an ileostomy operation in each of the past three years.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Ileostomy Operations.
33.
Statistics are not available at present in regard to the total number of ileostomy operations. Such statistics, however, will become available when the continuing in-patient survey being undertaken by the Medico-Social Research Board is extended to all of the general hospitals.
Would the Minister accept from me at this stage that there are a number of patients who have undergone this operation and who are in need of continuing assistance from the appropriate health authorities and would the Minister ensure that such claims as are made on their behalf will receive sympathetic consideration?
I shall, of course, be glad to consider that matter.