Catherine Connolly
Ceist:39. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Taoiseach his plans for long-Covid to be included in the terms of reference for the upcoming Covid inquiry. [12139/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 20 March 2024
Ceisteanna (39)
Freagraí scríofa
A comprehensive evaluation of how the country managed COVID-19 will provide an opportunity to learn lessons from our experiences in dealing with a pandemic.
It will include a review of the whole-of-government response to the pandemic and how we might do better and be in a stronger position if another pandemic or other similar type event were to occur.
It will include a consideration of the health service response covering hospitals, the community and nursing homes, along with the wider economic and social response.
It is intended to have a public element to hear the lived experiences of all society. The review should be undertaken by those independent of the national response and with relevant expertise.
A consultation with opposition parties and stakeholders has taken place on draft terms of reference. It is intended to bring the terms of reference to Government shortly.
As the purpose of the evaluation is to explore and evaluate our experiences from the pandemic to learn and prepare for future analogous events, it is not considered the appropriate setting to examine
current clinical challenges and service provision such as long covid.
However, we are very mindful of the impacts long covid can have. The HSE interim Model of Care for Long COVID is being implemented, building on existing service provision, in addition to establishing new services across GP, community services and acute hospitals, to ensure a national service is in place for all who need it.
The HSE and the Department of Health continue to monitor international data and research to ensure all available evidence is used for service planning and delivery.