Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 September 2020
723. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Health the number of Parkinson’s disease specialist nurses that will be employed under the enhanced community care fund (details supplied); if there will be an increase in the number of neurologists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24851/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe enhancement of community care, the further integration of care and the establishment of multidisciplinary teams for those with chronic conditions such as Parkinson's disease is a key vision of Sláintecare. As part of Budget 2020, Sláintecare was allocated €10 million for a Sláintecare Enhanced Community Care Fund as initial funding to deliver on a commitment to employ up to 1,000 additional staff in the community.
Specifically, this fund will support initiatives such as the hiring of additional dementia advisors and therapists in the community. This includes the recruitment of Speech & Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Dieticians etc., who will provide much needed treatment to those suffering with chronic conditions such as Parkinson's Disease.
Prioritisation of initiatives that will have a positive impact on waiting lists, and in the first instance on community waiting lists will be carried out. The reduction of waiting times for access to community therapists will be targeted to deliver more timely care for patients with chronic conditions such as Parkinson's Disease.
The National Clinical Programme for Neurology launched its Model of Care for the Republic of Ireland in 2016 and within it is outlined a Parkinson’s disease pathway. It is widely acknowledged that there is a need to develop services for those with Parkinson’s disease in line with international standards recommended within the model of care. The programme continues to support the ongoing realisation of the model of care.
As the HSE has responsibility for the operation and provision of services including the appropriate allocation of staffing resources, I have requested that the Executive reply directly to you on this matter, specifically regarding the numbers and grades of staff requested.
