Vol. 519 No. 6
176 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health and Children the benefits arising from MRI technology for hospital patients requiring investigation procedures; the number of MRI scanners available to public patients; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14717/00]
Magnetic resonance imaging facilities in the public hospital sector are available at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin. This scanner services in-patients, out-patients and referrals from other health boards and hospitals. Private MRI facilities are also available at three other sites in Dublin, namely, the Mater Private Hospital, St. Vincent's Private Hospital and the Blackrock Clinic. There is also a privately owned MRI facility located on the campus of Cork University Hospital. Public hospitals refer patients to both the public and privately owned scanners. However, access for public patients to the private facilities is available on a limited basis only.
Accordingly, an expert study of the existing arrangements for the provision of MRI facilities nationwide and likely future demand in this area was commissioned by my Department from Professor David Banta, an international expert in health technology assessment. Professor Banta's findings were announced in 1997, whereby he identified the need to develop MRI facilities at University College Hospital, Galway, St. James's Hospital and the new Tallaght Hospital.
All three hospitals have now submitted applications to my Department for the development of MRI facilities on foot of the acceptance of Professor Banta's recommendations. My Department has recently concluded discussions with the management of the three agencies concerning the installation and operational requirements for these facilities. Approval to progress with the contract arrangements for the provision of MRI facilities at the three sites will issue shortly. I am confident that this will have a positive impact on the overall waiting list and waiting times for MRI scans throughout the public health sector.
MRI is of benefit in diagnosing many different illnesses, particularly neurological, musculo-skeletal and spinal illness. It avoids many invasive procedures that were previously painful and hazardous to patients.
