Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 10 Dec 2002

Vol. 559 No. 1

Written Answers. - Rheumatology Services.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

300 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has satisfied himself with the level of rheumatology services available in the health boards; his plans to improve or extend such services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25368/02]

Jack Wall

Ceist:

301 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of rheumatologists in each of the health boards at present; if he has satisfied himself that this number is capable of meeting the demands for the number of patients seeking such a service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25369/02]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 300 and 301 together.

Based on figures supplied by Comhairle na nOspidéal, there are currently 17 approved consultant rheumatologist posts in the State. The breakdown by health board is as follows:

Health Board	Total WTE.
Eastern Regional Health Authority	10
Mid-Western Health Board	1
North-Western Health Board	1
South-Eastern Health Board	2
Southern Health Board	2
Western Health Board	1
Total	17

The Irish Society for Rheumatology has prepared a report on rheumatology manpower which was submitted to my Department and the health agencies earlier this year. Comhairle na nOspidéal carried out a review of rheumatology and rehabilitation services in 1995 and I understand that comhairle has appointed a committee to update this review in light of the report from the Irish Society for Rheumatology. I expect that the comhairle committee 's review will be completed in the new year.