Vol. 537 No. 5
280 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if his Department will carry out a review of neurological services in view of a recent statement (details supplied) made by a consultant neurologist at Beaumont Hospital that 15% of people suffering from multiple sclerosis and 15% of those with motor neurone disease have never been seen by a neurologist; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17364/01]
359 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will make a statement on a recent study on neurology services published by a person (details supplied). [17044/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 280 and 359 together.
Last year the Irish Consultant Neurologists Association submitted a report to my Department which identified a need to increase the number of consultant neurologists in this country to meet an increasing demand from people presenting with neurological disorders. The report considered the need for further expansion nationwide, as the nature of neurological practice is changing with new therapies for many disorders becoming available.
Arising from a number of meetings with interest groups, I requested Comhairle Na nOspidéal to conduct a review of neurological services and related issues.
The terms of reference are as follows:
