Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 September 2020
1057. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if private hospital capacity can be used to clear cancer diagnostic backlogs (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21305/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn arrangement with private hospitals was put in place for the period 30 March to end June in view of the Covid-19 pandemic. This facilitated access to diagnostics and treatment for public patients in private hospitals.
The arrangement facilitated the transfer of critical time-dependent and complex services, particularly those involving cancer surgery, chemotherapy, cardiothoracic surgery, transplant surgery and cardiology.
I am advised that the HSE are in negotiation with the private hospitals in relation to:
- access to private hospitals in the case of a Covid-19 surge;
- access to services to address needs in providing essential ongoing care; and
- securing an ability to address elective care for public patients experiencing delays and in circumstances of a growth in waiting lists.
Cancer diagnostic services (including Rapid Access Clinics) have continued throughout the pandemic, with appropriate restrictions for physical distancing and infection prevention and control. At this point, attendance numbers at urgent Symptomatic Breast Disease Clinics have returned to pre-Covid levels. While attendances are down for Rapid Access Lung Clinics, Rapid Access Prostate Clinics and non-urgent Breast Disease Clinics, they are showing a month on month recovery.
