Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 September 2020
1182. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health his plans regarding rapid access clinics for cancer diagnoses; the planned expansions to the service; the estimated cost of an expansion to the service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21503/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra1183. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of a 10% increase in funding for rapid access clinics [21504/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1182 and 1183 together.
Cancer Rapid Access Clinics continued to operate throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, with appropriate physical distancing and infection prevention and control measures. At this point, attendance numbers at urgent 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 steady recovery.
Funding is being sought to address the delivery of services during the Covid pandemic, and in the context of an increasing and an ageing population, through the Winter planning and 2021 Estimates processes.
