Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 June 2021
589. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Health if the expansion of cancer screening services and cancer treatment has been considered even on a temporary basis to clear the enlarged waiting lists arising from Covid-19 restrictions. [25724/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Action Plan on Covid-19 identified the continued provision of cancer care as a priority. Cancer services continue to operate in line with guidance issued by the HSE's National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP).
While capacity across our cancer services has been reduced due to the increased need for physical distancing and infection control measures, funding of €12m has been allocated in Budget 2021 for the restoration of cancer services in the context of Covid-19. This will support diagnostic services, virtual clinics & triage, organisation of treatment services, minor capital works and psycho-social supports.
In addition, as part of Budget 2021, an extra €20m has been allocated for the continued implementation of the National Cancer Strategy this year. This funding is being used to facilitate developments across prevention, diagnosis, treatment and patient supports.
All three national cancer screening programmes (BreastCheck, CervicalCheck, BowelScreen) are operating, albeit at a reduced capacity due to the impact of COVID-19 restrictions and the recent cyber-attack.
The focus of the resumption of cancer screening services includes the management of capacity across the whole of screening pathway, which includes follow-up assessment and treatments.
It is also important to emphasise that screening is for healthy people who do not have symptoms. People who are between screening appointments, or who are waiting for a rescheduled appointment, are advised to be aware of symptoms, or if they have concerns or worries to contact their GP, who will arrange appropriate follow-up care.
In terms of funding, an additional €10 million was allocated for cancer screening services to the HSE for 2021. Many of the new developments being funded in 2021 will help increase capacity and enable the management of screening service users with deferred appointments due to COVID-19. One important initiative prioritised for 2021 is the development and opening of new semi-permanent BreastCheck units in two locations, in Donegal and Dublin, later this year.
