Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 September 2004
161 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if liquid based cervical smear testing is universally used throughout the country; and if not, when it is envisaged that such testing will be extended. [23058/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is advised by the Eastern Regional Health Authority that it has introduced liquid based cytology into all cytology laboratories in the region. In addition, my Department is currently in discussion with the Irish cervical screening programme concerning the question of introducing liquid based cytology in other laboratories in the country.
162 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to ensure the rapid turnaround of cervical smear testing results. [23059/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe number of smear tests carried out annually is approximately 230,000 and represents an increase of almost 20% in recent years. In order to meet this increased demand, additional cumulative funding of €11 million has been provided by my Department since 2002 to enhance the laboratory and colposcopy services. This funding has enabled the laboratories to employ additional personnel, to purchase new equipment and to introduce new technology and thereby increase the volume of activity. In addition, a number of hospitals have undertaken initiatives such as contracting out of smear test analysis to external laboratories. These initiatives have resulted in a reduction in waiting times.
163 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children the waiting time for results of cervical smear tests in each health board area. [23060/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is advised by the Eastern Regional Health Authority and relevant health boards that the current average waiting times for cervical screening tests are as follows:
|
Board |
Urgent |
Routine |
|
ERHA |
1-2 weeks |
6-7 weeks |
|
NEHB |
1 week |
4-9 weeks |
|
NWHB |
4 weeks |
4-6 weeks |
|
SHB |
1 week |
7-8 weeks |
|
WHB |
2 weeks |
6 weeks |
The number of smear tests carried out annually is approximately 230,000 and represents an increase of almost 20% in recent years. In order to meet this increased demand, additional cumulative funding of €11 million has been provided by my Department since 2002 to enhance the laboratory and colposcopy services. This funding has enabled the laboratories to employ additional personnel, purchase new equipment and to introduce new technology and thereby increase the volume of activity and improve turnaround times for results. In addition, a number of hospitals have contracted out smear test analysis to external laboratories to reduce waiting times.
