Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 30 Jan 1990

Vol. 394 No. 8

Written Answers. - Neuro-Surgery Operation.

Mervyn Taylor

Ceist:

375 Mr. Taylor asked the Minister for Health if, in view of his statement to Dáil Éireann on the adjournment debate on 8 November 1989 to the effect that the neuro-surgery services at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, were adequate, if he will make a statement regarding the urgent and long overdue need for a neuro-surgery operation in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 22; the length of time this person has been waiting for an urgent and much needed operation; when same will be arranged; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

While the principle of patient confidentiality prevents a full discussion of an individual case on the floor of the House, I can say that the neuro-surgery department of Beaumont Hospital informed the patient's general practitioner on 7 December 1989 that it was in a position to accept an immediate referral and to assess this patient. It also stated that the policy of the hospital board was to fund external referrals or consultations only where it is satisfied that none of its consultant neuro-surgeons are in a position to provide a service in a particular case.

I understand that the general practitioner in consultation with the family has in the interim arranged to have the patient treated elsewhere.