Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 May 2018
283. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Health the status of the introduction of the 20-week anomaly scan at Cavan General Hospital; if it is now open to all women; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18914/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Maternity Strategy is very clear that all women must have equal access to standardised ultrasound services. The Strategy will be implemented on a phased basis and this work is being led by the National Women and Infants Health Programme. The Programme's Implementation Plan for the Strategy includes a number of actions to facilitate the provision by all maternity hospitals/units of dating and anomaly scans to all pregnant women.
Indeed, the issue of anomaly scanning is a matter of priority for the NWIHP and additional funding provided to the Programme for 2018 will facilitate the recruitment of the 28 additional sonographers required to provide 100% access to such a service. Pending the recruitment and necessary training processes, the Programme will continue to work with the six Hospital Groups to assist in increasing access to anomaly scans. In this context, it is expected that the establishment of Maternity Networks across Hospital Groups will assist in the development of a sustainable service model that ensures that all women can access anomaly scans.
In relation to the specific query raised concerning Cavan General Hospital, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.
