Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 22 Feb 1995

Vol. 449 No. 5

Written Answers. - Angioplast Procedures.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

66 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Health the extent of the waiting list for angioplast procedures at St. James's Hospital, Dublin 8; the number of other hospitals in the Dublin area that provide angioplast treatment for public patients; and if he will make this service available in the Southern Health Board area. [4097/95]

Michael Creed

Ceist:

67 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Health if angioplast procedures are available to public patients in the Southern Health Board region; and, if so, the extent of waiting lists for this procedure. [4098/95]

Minister for Health, Mr. Noonan

(Limerick East): I propose to take questions Nos. 66 and 67 together.

The provision of services in the Southern Health Board is a matter for them in the first instance. Cardiology procedures, including angioplasty procedures, are provided at Cork University Hospital. I understand that there are currently twenty patients on the waiting list at Cork University Hospital. In recent months Cork University Hospital has experienced some difficulties with regard to cardiology equipment. However, my Department has made funding available to the board for the replacement of this equipment.

I understand from the hospital authorities that tenders are currently being sought. In the interim, Cork University Hospital has referred patients to Dublin hospitals for angioplasty procedures. These procedures are available at four hospitals in Dublin including St. James's Hospital. The current waiting list at St. James's Hospital is approximately 30 and the average waiting time is three months. However, waiting times vary according to the needs of individual patients and priority is given in accordance with medical criteria.

The Deputy may wish to know that my Department has made substantial funds available for the development of cardiac services in Cork. This funding includes provision for the following: establishment of a dedicated cardiac catheterisation laboratory; appointment of a second consultant cardiologist and the appointment of a second cardio-thoracic surgeon.

With regard to the cardio-thoracic surgeon, my Department sanctioned this post early in 1992. Interviews were held in March 1993 but the Local Appointments Commission was unable to recommend a suitable candidate. I understand from the hospital authorities that further interviews will be held in the coming weeks. With regard to the appointment of a second consultant cardiologist, my Department sanctioned this post on 1 December 1994. I understand from the Southern Health Board that it is in the process of preparing a submission to Cómhairle na nOspidéal in relation to this post.