Hospital Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 March 2015

Tuesday, 24 March 2015

Ceisteanna (560)

John McGuinness

Ceist:

560. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health if he will explain the decision taken to move all elective orthopaedic surgery from Kilcreene Hospital in County Kilkenny to Waterford Regional Hospital; the consultation the Health Service Executive undertook with staff members, consultants and service users; if the decision will be reversed, based on the fact that Kilcreene Hospital carries out the highest number of operations and elective orthopaedics in the country for a hospital of its size, is providing value-for-money and is cost-effective; the reason the Parliamentary Question asked by this Deputy on the 9 December 2014 was not answered by the executive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11188/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Health

I understand that discussions have commenced in relation to the reorganisation of elective orthopaedics within the South South West Hospitals Group. As part of these discussions, the option of centralising elective orthopaedic surgery in University Hospital Waterford is being examined. I have therefore asked the HSE to respond to you directly in relation to the detailed queries you have raised. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, please contact my Private Office and my officials will follow the matter up.

I am informed that the HSE responded to your earlier question on this issue on 19 March last.