Robert Molloy
Ceist:138 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Health the reason for the delay in publishing the review of the hospice-palliative care service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20484/96]
Written Answers. - National Cancer Strategy.
Limerick East): I assume that the review to which the Deputy is referring is the National Cancer Strategy and I am glad to say that I launched this strategy today as part of a series of initiatives in relation to cancer.
The National Cancer Strategy is aimed at reorganising cancer services to ensure that they meet the needs of patients in the best manner. The strategy's principal objectives are to take all measures possible to reduce the rates of illness and death from cancer, in line with the targets established in Shaping a Healthier Future; and to ensure that those who develop cancer receive the most effective care and treatment, and that their quality of life is enhanced to the greatest possible extent.
In relation to the latter objective the health boards will be asked to draw up a set of priorities for the development of palliative care services in their areas and the proposed supra-regional cancer services, as outlined in the Strategy, will include a consultant-led palliative care service. A programme of specialist palliative care in regional cancer services will be developed on a phased basis in consultation with the health boards and other agencies. I will also be asking the proposed national forum on cancer services to provide detailed advice on the development of palliative care services nationally.