Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 December 2015
13. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Health the measures he is taking to improve access to, and the quality of, treatment for lymphoedema in the south-east region and across the country; when he expects the Health Service Executive report on this matter to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42968/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe main treatments for lymphoedema involve lymph drainage, compression bandages and physiotherapy. While these treatments are provided by the HSE it is acknowledged that there is variation in the level of delivery across the country, including the South East region.
In June this year I met with representatives of Lymphoedema Ireland, the HSE and my Department to discuss the supply of, and reimbursement for, compression bandages, the development of an adequate model of care and access to services for lymphoedema patients. A subsequent meeting involving Lymphoedema Ireland and the HSE took place on 19 August.
The HSE has no plans to produce a report on lymphoedema services. However, in April this year the HSE's National Cancer Control Programme published a leaflet on prevention of clinical lymphoedema after cancer treatment. This leaflet focuses on the prevention, early detection and risk reduction of clinical lymphoedema after cancer treatment. It emphasises in particular the importance of early intervention in preventing the progression of lymphoedema in cancer patients. I am advised that new cases of lymphoedema linked to cancer are becoming less common due to improvements in cancer treatment.
The HSE is currently examining the issues raised by lymphoedema patients, in particular in relation to the provision of compression bandages. They are continuing to work closely with Lymphoedema Ireland and a follow-up meeting is planned for early next year.
