Medical Aids and Appliances Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 November 2014

Thursday, 20 November 2014

Ceisteanna (98, 99)

Maureen O'Sullivan

Ceist:

98. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if he will be heeding recommendations from experienced doctors in the field regarding the setting up of a national review process for the provision of wheelchair and assistive technologies in view of the fact that the current system of allocating said equipment for persons diagnosed with debilitating conditions is often not fit for purpose due to a lack of a central database; and his views on the importance of this topic as the recent national review raised serious questions regarding the current system in place. [44611/14]

Maureen O'Sullivan

Ceist:

99. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if he will consider the University of Limerick research calling for a Government mandate to set up a national body with a specific remit for the provision, maintenance and registration of assistive technologies; his further views on establishing such a register in the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44612/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Health

I propose to take Questions Nos. 98 and 99 together.

The governance, organisation, development and processes in relation to aids and appliances and assistive technologies is a matter for the Health Service Executive (HSE). I have arranged for the Deputy's questions to be referred to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy. If the Deputy has not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, he can contact my Private Office and they will follow the matter up with the HSE.