John Browne
Ceist:92 Mr. Browne (Carlow-Kilkenny) asked the Minister for Health the number of rheumatologists that are employed in the various health board areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Consultant Rheumatologists.
There are 11 posts of Consultant in Rheumatology and Rehabilitation: seven in the Eastern Health Board area, two in the Southern Health Board area, one in the North-Western Health Board area and one in the Western Health Board area. In addition to these posts, there are three posts of Consultant in Rehabilitative Medicine based at the National Medical Rehabilitation Centre, Dublin.
As the Deputy is no doubt aware, rheumatology and rehabilitation have become separate specialties in the recent past. Comhairle na nOspidéal has established a committee to examine and to formulate recommendations on the implications of this separation. The future development of these specialties will need to be examined in light of Comhairle's recommendations.