Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 March 2013
255. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Health the steps he will take to address the lack of a level 2 general practitioner in the Drogheda, County Louth area; the steps being put in place to deal with patients who require methadone treatment; the number of persons that will be affected by this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11912/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand that a Level 2 General Practitioner who was based in Drogheda has just moved practice to Duleek, Co Meath and that his opioid substitution clinic will be held there this week. Approximately 35 people attend this GP for methadone treatment. I am advised that the HSE is working to put arrangements in place to again facilitate clients to be treated in Drogheda, if they so wish, as soon as possible. The HSE continues to work with GPs across the region with a view to recruiting more community-based prescribers for opioid substitution treatment.
