Vol. 463 No. 3
88 Mr. D. McDowell asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the suffering caused to people by the illness known as post polio syndrome; and the facilities that are available within the health service for the treatment of this syndrome. [6748/96]
108 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the illness, post-polio syndrome or LEP, late effects of polio; and the steps, if any, is taking to deal with the victims of this condition. [6131/96]
115 Mr. L. Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Health if he has received a copy of correspondence from polio sufferers regarding a condition known as post-polio syndrome or LEP, late effects of polio; his views on whether this is a definite clinical neurological diagnosis; if his attention has been drawn to the symptoms of this condition; whether he has studied the case made by this organisation seeking the establishment by the State of a trust fund administered by polio sufferers, health professionals and his Department's representatives, to allocate financial assistance to sufferers on the basis of proven need; his further views on the merits of this case; whether he will seek Government approval for the establishment of a trust fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6242/96]
Limerick East): I propose to take Questions Nos. 88, 108 and 115 together.
I have received a copy of correspondence from people with post polio syndrome and am aware of the symptoms of this condition which is accepted as a definite neurological diagnosis. I have examined the case made by people with post polio syndrome for the establishment of a trust fund but, as I have already stated in this House, I consider that the range of schemes available to all people with disabilities are sufficient to meet the needs of people with this condition. These include entitlements to apply for medical cards, drug cost subsidisation scheme, drug refund scheme, disabled person's maintenance allowance and mobility allowance.
People suffering from post polio syndrome have reported a range of physical problems such as respiratory or speech difficulties, unusual fatigue and pain in muscles and joints. The management of these symptoms is possible through health services available for people with disabilities such as orthotic services, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language therapy services as well as home based services such as home help and aids and appliances. In addition, patients with post polio syndrome can be assessed and their condition monitored by a neuromuscular neurologist with experience in LEP at the Neuromuscular Clinic in Beaumont Hospital. There are no particular circumstances in relation to this condition which would warrant making special financial arrangements above those available to other people with physical disability.
