Peter Burke
Ceist:460. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Health if he will address a matter regarding transport for a child (details supplied). [26540/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraServices for People with Disabilities
Ceisteanna (460)
Freagraí scríofa
The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.
Officials from my Department sought clarification on the details of this Parliamentary Question, and I am informed that the Deputy's office confirmed that it relates to transport to and from a day service, Praxis Care in Mullingar. The HSE have been advised of this accordingly.
Hospitals Building Programme
Ceisteanna (461)
Michael Harty
Ceist:461. Deputy Michael Harty asked the Minister for Health the status of the provision of the 60-bed modular unit at University Hospital Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26570/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Health Service Executive is responsible for the delivery of healthcare infrastructure projects, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly in relation to this matter.
Medical Aids and Appliances Provision
Ceisteanna (462)
Fergus O'Dowd
Ceist:462. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Health if concerns raised in correspondence by a person (details supplied) relating to the availability of the FreeStyle Libre device for adults will receive a response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26571/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013, the HSE has statutory responsibility for the administration of the community drug schemes; therefore, the matter has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
Hospital Appointments Status
Ceisteanna (463)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:463. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health the status of an appointment for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26574/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for reply to the Deputy.
Departmental Budgets
Ceisteanna (464)
Barry Cowen
Ceist:464. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 163 of 18 June 2019, the way in which he and the HSE will deal with the concerns relating to health expenditure in 2019; if there will be a review of the 2019 service plan to deal with these concerns; if a revised service plan will be published for 2019; the areas causing concern in this regard; the way in which these concerns will be addressed within the health expenditure ceiling; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26575/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I have emphasised to the Health Service Executive the need to address health spending urgently including by means of the following measures;
- Steps to ensure compliance with the staffing limits for 2019. Pending receipt of finalised financial plans which will manage the staffing levels back to affordable numbers, on 29 March the Health Service Executive put in place measures and controls regarding recruitment.
- A reporting and monitoring structure around agreed savings targets in the National Service Plan, with responsible managers providing a monthly report commencing in respect of Quarter 1.
- A mid-year review of the Health Service Executives performance on savings and staffing limits with further interventions to follow, if necessary.
- The establishment of a new HSE Board governance structure, with strong competencies across key areas, will further contribute to strengthening the oversight and performance of the HSE pending its further reorganisation. The recent appointment of a CEO to the Health Service Executive will also strengthen the HSE’s leadership and focus on performance. In fact, the development and implementation of an effective performance management and accountability system in the HSE has been identified by me as one of the priority issues for the new Board.
The National Service Plan requires the HSE to protect and promote the health and well-being of the population, having regard to the resources available to it, and making the most efficient and effective use of those resources. Implementation of the Service Plan is ongoing and my Department understands that the position of the HSE is that protection of front line service delivery is it's priority. The legislation (Health Act 2004, as amended) does provide for me to direct the HSE to submit an amended service plan if necessary.
My Department is engaging in ongoing dialogue with both the HSE and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in relation to the financial performance of the Health Service Executive year to date, including consideration of the projected outturn for the year.
These discussions are ongoing and until they are concluded it would not be appropriate for me to anticipate the outcome.
Primary Care Centres Staff
Ceisteanna (465)
Thomas P. Broughan
Ceist:465. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the number of vacant posts in the primary care centre in Coolock, Dublin 5; when the posts will be filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26605/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the HSE has responsibility for the provision, along with the maintenance and operation of Primary Care Centres and other Primary Care facilities, the Executive has been asked to reply directly to the Deputy.
Medical Aids and Appliances Provision
Ceisteanna (466)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:466. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if he will request a report by an organisation (details supplied) be included as part of the HSE one-year review to extend the FreeStyle Libre device to all persons with type 1 diabetes; his views of the report findings; if clinical effectiveness and quality of life impact data on patients will be considered as part of the review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26607/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013, the HSE has statutory responsibility for the administration of the community drug schemes; therefore, the matter has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
Health Services Staff Recruitment
Ceisteanna (467)
Richard Boyd Barrett
Ceist:467. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Health the reason there has been a delay in appointing a new sonographer in St. Michael’s Hospital, Dún Laoghaire, that has led to the development of another waiting list after the scheduled retirement of the previous sonographer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26632/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to you directly, as soon as possible.
Health Services Staff Recruitment
Ceisteanna (468, 469, 470)
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:468. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the waiting lists for children seeking access to a speech and language therapist by CHO in tabular form; the number of additional speech and language therapists required to eliminate waiting lists for same; and the estimated cost of employing such therapists in line with the Disability Act 2005. [26637/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraCaoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:469. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the waiting lists for children seeking access to an occupational therapist by CHO in tabular form; the number of additional occupational therapists required to eliminate waiting lists for occupational therapy; and the estimated costs of employing such therapists in line with the Disability Act 2005. [26638/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraCaoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:470. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the waiting lists for children seeking access to physiotherapy by CHO in tabular form; the number of additional physiotherapists required to eliminate waiting lists for same; and the estimated costs of employing such therapists in line with the Disability Act 2005. [26639/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 468 to 470, inclusive, together.
The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.
Psychological Services Waiting Lists
Ceisteanna (471)
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:471. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the waiting lists for children seeking access to psychologists by CHO in tabular form; the number of additional psychologists required to eliminate waiting lists for psychology treatments; and the estimated costs of employing such psychologists in line with the Disability Act 2005. [26640/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.
Speech and Language Therapy Waiting Lists
Ceisteanna (472)
James Lawless
Ceist:472. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Health the waiting list for non-urgent referrals to the speech and language therapist in the mid-Kildare network disability team; and if the waiting list time will improve as vacant posts are filled. [26645/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.
Hospital Appointments Status
Ceisteanna (473)
Barry Cowen
Ceist:473. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Health the status of the case of a person (details supplied); and when the person can expect an appointment with a consultant at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, in view of the fact an appointment has been cancelled on three occasions. [26646/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under the Health Act 2004, the Health Service Executive (HSE) is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. Section 6 of the HSE Governance Act 2013 bars the Minister for Health from directing the HSE to provide a treatment or a personal service to any individual or to confer eligibility on any individual.
The National Waiting List Management Policy, a standardised approach to managing scheduled care treatment for in-patient, day case and planned procedures, since January 2014, has been developed to ensure that all administrative, managerial and clinical staff follow an agreed national minimum standard for the management and administration of waiting lists for scheduled care. This policy, which has been adopted by the HSE, sets out the processes that hospitals are to implement to manage waiting lists.
In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly.
Medical Aids and Appliances Expenditure
Ceisteanna (474)
Paul Kehoe
Ceist:474. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Health the grants or rebate schemes available to help persons diagnosed with COPD with the cost of running oxygen machines and other electrical appliances required as part of their treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26649/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As this question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply.
Tender Process
Ceisteanna (475)
Mattie McGrath
Ceist:475. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health the status of the tendering process with regard to a service (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26650/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Mental Health Services Data
Ceisteanna (476)
Mattie McGrath
Ceist:476. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health the number of out-of-hours mental health specialist nurses available in each CHO area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26651/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Occupational Therapy Waiting Lists
Ceisteanna (477)
Kevin O'Keeffe
Ceist:477. Deputy Kevin O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health his plans to reduce the waiting list for paediatric occupational therapy in view of the two-year wait to access this service in the Cork and Kerry region. [26662/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As this question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply.
Medical Aids and Appliances Provision
Ceisteanna (478)
Jackie Cahill
Ceist:478. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Health if the FreeStyle Libre device will be extended to the general population of persons with diabetes; if not, the reason therefor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26690/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013, the HSE has statutory responsibility for the administration of the community drug schemes; therefore, the matter has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
Hospital Appointments Status
Ceisteanna (479)
Kevin O'Keeffe
Ceist:479. Deputy Kevin O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health the status of an appointment for a person (details supplied). [26692/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As this question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply.
Hospitals Capital Programme
Ceisteanna (480)
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:480. Deputy Jan O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if the extension and expansion of a hospital (details supplied) will be achieved before the end of the current health capital programme as originally planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26693/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department is continuing to work with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and the Health Service Executive in a process to finalise as soon as possible a multi-annual Capital Plan for the HSE, which will include capital projects to be funded in 2019 and beyond, having regard to the available capital funding, the number of large national capital projects currently underway and the cashflow requirements attaching to each project.
As the Health Service Executive is responsible for the delivery of healthcare infrastructure projects, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly in relation to the current position on the capital developments at Boyne View House, St Mary's Hospital, Drogheda Co. Louth.
Hospital Appointments Status
Ceisteanna (481)
Bernard Durkan
Ceist:481. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if a hospital appointment can be facilitated in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26695/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to you directly as soon as possible.
Medical Aids and Appliances Provision
Ceisteanna (482)
Catherine Connolly
Ceist:482. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Health if the survey findings of an organisation (details supplied) are being considered as part of the HSE review of the FreeStyle Libre device to be made available to all persons with type 1 diabetes; his views on the survey findings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26696/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013, the HSE has statutory responsibility for the administration of the community drug schemes; therefore, the matter has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
Autism Support Services
Ceisteanna (483)
Pearse Doherty
Ceist:483. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health if the HSE will be allocating more financial assistance in 2019 to an organisation (details supplied) in County Donegal and is working towards signing off on a service-level agreement with the organisation. [26720/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.
Hospitals Data
Ceisteanna (484, 485, 487)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:484. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health the number of persons waiting for orthopaedic operations in counties Clare, Limerick, Tipperary, Cork and Waterford; the length of time have been waiting by age range; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26721/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraMichael Healy-Rae
Ceist:485. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health the number of persons waiting for cataract operations in counties Clare, Limerick, Tipperary, Cork and Waterford; the length of time have been waiting by age range; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26722/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraMichael Healy-Rae
Ceist:487. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health the number of persons waiting for ENT services in counties Clare, Limerick, Tipperary, Cork and Waterford; the length of time they have been waiting by age range; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26725/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 484, 485 and 487 together.
Reducing waiting time for patients for hospital operations and procedures is a key priority for Government. Last year saw considerable improvement in the number of patients waiting for procedures. As a result of increased activity and the ongoing collaboration between the HSE and the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF), the number of patients waiting for an Inpatient or Day case procedure fell to 70,204 in December 2018, from a peak of 86,100 in July 2017. This represents a reduction of over 18% in the overall number of patients waiting for a procedure. The number of patients waiting more than 3 months fell by more than 17,700, or 31% in the same period from July 2017 to the end of December 2018.
Budget 2019 announced that the Government had further increased investment in tackling waiting lists, with funding to the National Treatment Purchase Fund increasing from €55 million in 2018 to €75 million in 2019. The joint Department of Health, HSE, and NTPF Scheduled Care Access Plan 2019 was published in March. Under the Plan the HSE, in line with the National Service Plan, will deliver 1.155 million elective inpatient and day case discharges at a value of €1.4 billion in 2019.
As a result of continued investment and the work undertaken as part of the Scheduled Care Access Plan, the number of patients waiting for cataract procedures has fallen by 44% from a high of 10,024 in July 2017 to 5,655 at the end of May 2019. For the same period the number of patients waiting more than 9 months has fallen by 89% from 4,371 to 481. The numbers waiting for hip and knee replacements has also reduced by 18%, while the number of patients waiting longer than 9 months has fallen by 69% from 1,019 in July 2019, to 319 at the end of May 2019.
While the meeting of short-term targets is always welcome, more can be achieved and, in this regard, the HSE, Department of Health and NTPF, under the Access Plan, will work together with the objective of developing medium-long term improvement initiatives for patient access to hospital procedures. This will include moving care to more appropriate settings and providing care at the lowest level of complexity such as providing ophthalmology in the community; maximising the use of Advanced Nurse Practitioner led clinics; and physiotherapists to manage orthopaedic clinics.
The specific data requested by the deputy is outlined in the attached documents.