Peter Barry
Ceist:29 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Health the waiting time for major cardiac surgery at Cork Regional Hospital; when the second cardiac surgeon will take up duty; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Hospital Waiting List.
The admission of a patient to hospital is a clinical decision for the consultant in charge of the case. Waiting lists are kept under review and priority is given to urgent cases. I would point out that it is very difficult to arrive at an average waiting time as the waiting period for each patient will differ according to his or her medical requirements.
With regard to the filling of the second cardiac surgeon post at Cork Regional Hospital, I understand that the Local Appointments Commissioners held interviews for the post on Friday last.
The Deputy will also be pleased to learn that the planning of a second cardiac theatre at Cork Regional Hospital is progressing satisfactorily and it is anticipated that work on the project will commence later this year. I am confident that this development, together with the second post of cardiac surgeon, will permit a significantly increased throughput of cardiac patients at the hospital.