asked the Minister for Health if he will state why two hospitals in Waterford City (names supplied) refused admission to a one-and-a-half-year-old child (name supplied) suffering apparently from gastroenteritis; if he is aware that the child died in Cherry Orchard Hospital. Dublin the following day; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Death of Child.
2.
I understand that because of the risk of infection of other patients, both general hospitals concerned do not admit patients considered to be suffering from gastroenteritis. The family doctor considered that there would be important advantages in arranging for treatment in Cherry Orchard Fever Hospital. Dublin, and the patient was transported there by car accompanied by a doctor and a nurse who were friends of the family. Unfortunately the baby was in a very low condition on admission at 3 a.m. on 18th January last and, despite every effort on the part of the hospital staff, died at 9 p.m. on that date.
Is the Minister aware that the lack of an isolation unit in a city the size of Waterford, which serves a large area, possibly led to the death of this child and would he state what steps he intends to take to provide an isolation unit in Waterford city?
This was a matter formerly for the Waterford Health Authority. It is now a matter for the South Eastern Health Board. On two occasions my Department reminded the Waterford Health Authority—they have now reminded the Eastern Health Board—that the Waterford area is the only area in the country without a paediatric unit of this kind. One is available in Cork, in Limerick, in Galway and in Sligo. I hope the chief executive officer will regard this matter as one of priority. If he can make arrangements for a paediatric unit, I assure the Deputy it will be included in the list of capital works for 1972-73. It is a matter for the health board now to initiate the arrangements.
I appreciate the Minister's interest in the matter, but could he take any steps to ensure that an isolation unit will be provided and will he have a word with the CEO to this effect?
We have already had a word with the CEO and I understand he is actively pursuing the matter.