National Treatment Purchase Fund.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 December 2006

Thursday, 14 December 2006

Ceisteanna (240)

Ned O'Keeffe

Ceist:

232 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will arrange for a person (details supplied) in County Cork to be seen by a consultant; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that they are suffering from prostate cancer and have to wait 16 months for an appointment; if she will have them referred to the National Treatment Purchase Fund; and if her attention has been further drawn to the fact that they are in severe pain. [43654/06]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I would be most concerned if a cancer patient had to wait for treatment for the period referred to by the Deputy, especially if the patient is suffering pain.

My Department has requested the Health Service Executive to have the matter examined as a matter of urgency, including the issue of referral under the National Treatment Purchase Fund if appropriate and to respond directly to the Deputy.