asked the Minister for Health if he has noted the contents of the statement issued on 28th May, 1976, by the Local Authority Medical Specialists Co. Ltd., regarding the period of time some patients must wait for operations; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Operations Waiting Time.
9.
I have seen the statement referred to by the Deputy. Waiting periods for operations vary from hospital to hospital and from one surgical condition to another. In general, the waiting period for operations is not unduly long and urgent cases are usually admitted for treatment without delay. There are a few problem areas such as eye surgery and hip replacement surgery. With regard to eye surgery, additional ophthalmic consultants and extra facilities have been provided within the past few years and the position is improving. The arrangements for providing orthopaedic surgery are being specially examined by Comhairle na nOspidéal and by my Department at present to see what can be done to improve the situation, within the resources available.