I propose to take Questions Nos. 49 and 100 together.
A key challenge for our health system is ensuring that patients have timely access to health services, in light of increasing demand. This Government is committed to a sustained focus on improving wait times, particularly for those patients waiting longest.
In August I tasked the Office of the HSE Chief Information Officer with producing a report into how digital solutions could improve the way in which waiting lists are managed. A detailed set of options has been provided to my Department by the HSE and I have asked that this matter be progressed through 2017. As part of this review, I understand that digital solutions from a number of countries were examined, including the Portuguese model.
In addition, my Department works closely with the HSE and the NTPF to implement a number of measures to reduce waiting times. These include the HSE Action Plan to reduce, by year end, the number of patients currently waiting 18 months or more for an inpatient / daycase procedure, the NTPF Endoscopy Initiative; and targeted Winter Initiative funding for orthopaedic, spinal and scoliosis procedures.
Finally, the Budget 2017 provides for the treatment of our longest-waiting patients. €20m is being allocated to the NTPF, rising to €55m in 2018. Planning of this initiative is at an advanced stage by the NTPF, my Department and the HSE.