Enda Kenny
Ceist:157 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children if it is his intention to appoint a full-time rheumatologist to Mayo General Hospital, Castlebar, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17199/00]
Written Answers. - Hospital Appointments.
The provision of services in this instance is the statutory responsibility of the Western Health Board. I understand from the board that to identify and address in a structured manner all issues associated with current service provision, it is currently in the process of drawing up a strategic plan for the development of rheumatology services in the western region over the next five year period. This plan is at an advanced stage of preparation. The plan will identify the consultant manpower requirements to meet service needs and the organisational structure necessary to promote optimum efficiencies, quality, accessibility and resource utilisation. The need for outreach clinics at other hospitals apart from the main base in Galway will be examined.
The board has sought the views of Comhairle na nOspidéal on the disposition of consultant rheumatologist posts throughout the region in the context of the Comhairle na nOspidéal policy document on rheumatology services.
I understand that when the draft strategy is finalised it will be presented to the board for formal adoption following consideration by the acute services standing committee and will then be forwarded to my Department.