Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 November 2021
505. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Health if he has met with the HSE in relation to the backlog of developmental check-ups for babies by public health nurses since the pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [58286/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere is an agreed model of performance oversight between the Department and the HSE. This model involves regular engagement at official level as well as a quarterly high-level meeting between the Minister and Chair of the HSE. The quarterly meeting gives the Minister the opportunity to review and discuss NSP targets and activity levels across the health system.
COVID-19 has clearly presented unprecedented challenges to health and social care delivery, and this is reflected by the backlog in developmental checks for babies. However, the HSE has informed the Department that the Public Health Nursing Service fully resumed on Monday 4th October 2021, meaning all five core child developmental assessments will be offered as they fall due. In addition, local Community Healthcare Organisations will seek to address the backlog of child developmental services.
