Finian McGrath
Ceist:1202. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health if he will support the provision of funding for bilateral cochlear implants for deaf Irish children [16578/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 16 April 2013
Ceisteanna (1202)
Freagraí scríofa
Since the national cochlear implant programme commenced seventeen years ago, over 700 patients have received cochlear implants. I am advised that, in 2012, ninety cochlear implants were carried out with 42 children receiving implants and 48 adults. In addition to providing the surgical services, the programme provides a comprehensive assessment service to potential candidates and a rehabilitative service to those actually implanted.
In 2009 a National Review of Audiology Services was carried out by the HSE, to examine the services provided to children and adults nationwide, and to formulate a national plan for the services. The report of the National Audiology Review Group, published by the HSE in 2011, provides the blueprint for the planning, development and delivery of HSE audiology services, from new-born screening to assessment and management of adults and children with hearing problems, including cochlear implantation. Two of the main recommendations in the report include the national rollout of a universal new-born hearing screening programme and the establishment of a bone anchored hearing aid programme. The report also included a recommendation that continued ring-fenced financial support be provided for the cochlear implant programme but at levels which allow for simultaneous bilateral implantation for children.
While no dedicated programme for simultaneous or sequential implantation is being carried out in Ireland at this time, some bilateral implantation has already occurred for patients, mainly very young children with certain medical conditions such as a history of meningitis or blindness. It is estimated that there are approximately 200 children in Ireland today who may be suitable for a second implant.
The HSE has advised that it is working closely with Beaumont Hospital to progress plans for both simultaneous and sequential bilateral implantation. The Beaumont Cochlear Implant Team attended a meeting with the British Cochlear Implant Group in March 2013 to determine best practice in relation to introducing a bilateral cochlear implant programme. The HSE has also engaged the services of Professor Gerry O' Donoghue, University of Nottingham, an international expert on the implementation of cochlear implant programmes who will meet with HSE and Beaumont Hospital representatives in May 2013 to advise on the best evidence-based approaches and methodologies for implementing such a programme. Following this, it is envisaged that a business plan will be developed to identify the requirements for funding and resources required to provide a sustainable and cohesive service. A framework will be provided that clarifies the prioritisation of children waiting for a sequential implant which will be on a fair and equitable basis. The objective is to have this information available in Q3, so it can be included as part of the business case to be progressed as part of the HSE 2014 estimates process.