Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 November 2020
695. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Health the duration of waiting lists at a hospital (details supplied) by the number of patients waiting in three-month increments - for example, the number waiting for three months, six months, nine months and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36175/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraReducing waiting time for patients for hospital operations and procedures is a key priority for Government. In recent years, my Department has worked with the HSE and the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) and made considerable improvements to access for patients waiting for high volume procedures, including cataracts.
It is recognised that waiting times for scheduled appointments and procedures have been impacted as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic the HSE had to take measures to defer most scheduled care activity in March, April, and May of this year. This was to ensure patient safety and that all appropriate resources were made available for Covid-19 related activity and time-critical essential work. This decision was in line with the advice issued by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) in accordance with the advice of the World Health Organisation.
Patient safety remains at the centre of all hospital activity and elective care scheduling. To ensure services are provided in a safe, clinically-aligned and prioritised way, hospitals are following HSE clinical guidelines and protocols.
The HSE continues to optimise productivity through alternative work practices such the use of alternative settings including private hospitals, community facilities and alternative outpatient settings.
The data requested by the Deputy concerning Cataract surgery waiting lists in Cork University Hospital is not available as this Hospital provides a regional tertiary referral ophthalmic service for the South-South West region and access to inpatient services for Ophthalmology is via the South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital (SIVUH).
The waiting lists for patients awaiting cataract surgery at the South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, as well as the number originating from County Kerry is outlined in the document below.
