David Stanton
Question:282. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health the number of persons in the State estimated to be suffering from long-Covid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19986/24]
View answerCovid-19 Pandemic
Questions (282)
Written answers
As the matter raised is a service delivery matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly as soon as possible.
Cancer Services
Questions (283)
Michael Ring
Question:283. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health when an entitlement (details supplied) will be restored; if the same entitlement is available in other CHO areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19992/24]
View answerWritten answers
The Health Service Executive (HSE) provide an extensive range of aids and appliances to individuals living with a wide variety of different medical conditions. These support individuals to continue living within their communities and to enjoy a greater quality of life than would otherwise be the case. The Community Funded Schemes (CFS) is the collective name for the provision of these products and services.
The Community Funded Scheme service improvement programme recently published two new national procedures for the provision of an allowance for cancer treatment in respect of hair loss and post mastectomy products. The HSE advise that the intention of the new procedures was to standardize provision across the country.
I instructed the HSE to ensure that no patient, either currently availing of the scheme or accessing it in the future, should be at any financial loss as a result of the proposed changes.
The HSE communicated to each CHO advising them to revert to the previous levels of contribution until such time as the new procedures can be reviewed in terms of the proposed allowances to be provided. CHOs were also instructed to contact any member of the public who received an email/communication advising them of the new procedure to inform them it has been withdrawn. This communication also reiterated that no person should be disadvantaged in any way in the intervening period.
I want to reiterate that progressing Women's Health is a priority within the Programme for Government, and a top priority for me as Minister for Health. I am proud to have overseen unprecedented levels of funding in women's health services over the last few years. I want to ensure that the necessary supports are put in place so that every woman has the same level of access to appropriate healthcare no matter where they live in Ireland.
As this also raises a specific service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Health Services Staff
Questions (284)
Róisín Shortall
Question:284. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the status of the 14 vacant neurology nursing posts which funding was provided for in Budget 2022; if he intends to order a derogation from the HSE recruitment freeze to fill these posts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20005/24]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible
Hospital Services
Questions (285)
Róisín Shortall
Question:285. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the steps he is taking to ensure that all Model 3 hospitals have access to out-patient neurology services, as outlined in the 2016 Model of Care for Neurology Services; his plans to provide a dedicated outpatient neurology service in Portlaoise, Wexford and Mayo hospitals; if he will provide further resources to ensure that both Sligo and Cork University Hospitals can support neurology clinics in Letterkenny and Bantry hospitals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20006/24]
View answerWritten answers
As there has been no agreement among Principal Officers as to where this PQ should be assigned, please be advised that it will now be subject to the arbitration process for decision
Health Services Staff
Questions (286)
Róisín Shortall
Question:286. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health to enable recruitment for the community neurorehabilitation teams for which funding is available in 2024, as outlined in the HSE Service Plan; if he will commit to funding the remaining teams in Budget 2025, including to address the staffing shortage for the community neurorehabilitation team in CHO 3; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20007/24]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Hospital Services
Questions (287)
Róisín Shortall
Question:287. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the steps he is taking to address the critical shortage of post-acute specialist rehabilitation beds; the current number of post-acute specialist rehabilitation beds; the timeline for delivery of planned beds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20008/24]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Health Strategies
Questions (288)
Róisín Shortall
Question:288. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health to provide an update on implementation of the National Stroke Strategy 2022-2027; the funding provided to the strategy in each of the years since its publication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20009/24]
View answerWritten answers
The HSE National Stroke Strategy 2022-2027 aims to modernise and reform stroke services in line with Sláintecare policy and address the challenges facing Ireland from population ageing and the predicted increase in the total number of strokes right across Europe, including Ireland. The strategy provides a blueprint for required investment in stroke services over the five-year period from 2022-2027.
The government is fully committed to supporting improvements and advances in stroke services and has allocated a total of €7.3m to fund the HSE National Stroke Strategy over the last two Budgets which comprises of:
• 2024 Existing Levels of Service (ELS) recurring funding of €3.7m which was allocated for the extension of the GP contract to include primary care-delivered case finding and treatment strategy for Hypertension in over 45-year-olds.
• This was in addition to the €3.6m recurring funding that was allocated in new service developments (NSD) in 2023.
• Separately, in 2023, funding was allocated from existing HSE pay budgets for the recruitment of 24.9 to further the implementation of the strategy. To date 12 WTE’s have been recruited.
The funding allocated to the National Stroke Strategy to date has enabled significant new developments such as:
• the expansion of the GP contract to include opportunistic screening of hypertension (a significant risk factor for stroke). This contract is in place and GPs commenced the service in Q1 2024. The HSE estimate that the appropriate management of hypertension through the opportunistic screening of patients in the GP Chronic Disease Management Programme could save up to €33m.
• the recruitment of 12 posts to support acute stroke units, endovascular thrombectomy centres and has enabled the expansion of ESD teams in the community from 6 to 11 teams (target is 21 ESD teams nationally). The stroke strategy estimates that with the full roll out of 21 ESD teams there will be an estimated >4500 bed days returned to the hospital system and estimated savings of €3.8m.
• funding also contributed towards funding a stroke research fellowship post and a public awareness campaign to highlight the signs of stroke which we know saves lives and I understand this is on target to launch in Q4 of 2024.
I remain fully committed to making further progress on implementing the stroke strategy and will continue to work with the HSE to ensure its successful implementation to further reduce mortality from stroke, as well as supporting survivors of stroke to live as independently as possible in their communities.
Health Services
Questions (289)
Róisín Shortall
Question:289. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health to provide an update on implementation of the Model of Care for Dementia; the funding provided to this model of care to date since its publication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20010/24]
View answerWritten answers
In May 2023, the HSE published the Model of Care for Dementia, building on commitments made in the National Dementia Strategy around timely diagnosis, intervention and care. The Model of Care sets out a comprehensive framework and associated targets for timely, integrated dementia assessment, diagnosis, post-diagnostic support and care for people living with dementia in Ireland.
Improving dementia diagnostic and community services has been a priority for this Government over the past four years. To support the evolving Model of Care, the Government allocated €5.9m in new recurring funding in 2021 and €7.3m in 2022. A further recurring €0.9m was provided in 2023. Last year we also provided €2.1 million on an ongoing basis for the reopening of dementia day care centres to full capacity, and there are now 52 Alzheimer Society of Ireland day care centres in operation. A minimum of 18% of new home support hours is being allocated to people with dementia in 2024, up from 15% in 2023.
For 2024 an additional recurring €0.5 million for dementia day care at home has been allocated, as well as €300,000 once-off for weekend activity clubs for people with young onset dementia. The additional day care at home has commenced in partnership with the Alzheimer Society of Ireland and Western Alzheimer's, and the weekend activity clubs, to be provided by the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, are scheduled to commence in September.
Recurring Government funding in successive years has enabled the establishment of a National Dementia Adviser Service and a national network of Memory Technology Resource Rooms, providing post-diagnostic supports to thousands of clients and their families each year.
In Budgets 2021-2023, Government provided recurring funding for 10 new Memory Assessment and Support Services, two new Regional Specialist Memory Clinics, enhancement of two existing Regional Specialist Memory Clinics and the National Intellectual Disability Memory Service. To date, three new Memory Assessment and Support Services are operational, in Mayo, Sligo and Cavan/Monaghan; a new Regional Specialist Memory Clinic has commenced in Cork; two existing Regional Specialist Memory Clinics in Dublin have been strengthened, and the National Intellectual Disability Memory Service is operational in Tallaght University Hospital. Partial recruitment has taken place to a further five Memory Assessment and Support Services. Consideration will be given to the recruitment of additional staff in the context of future budgets.
Hospital Equipment
Questions (290)
Matt Carthy
Question:290. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 641 of 16 April 2024, the average cost involved to deliver a MRI scanner in Irish hospitals; the average cost when it is the first MRI scanner in a hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20011/24]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Health Services
Questions (291)
Matt Carthy
Question:291. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Health when families and service users in north Kildare will have access to details of the SIA report in the matter of delivery of services and arrangements re HSE/St. John of God; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20012/24]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Dental Services
Questions (292)
Matt Carthy
Question:292. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure that a child (details supplied) is offered the plan to urgently complete their orthodontal treatment in the orthodontal clinic in Louth County Hospital, following the resignation of their orthodontist; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20015/24]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly.
Patient Deaths
Questions (293)
Carol Nolan
Question:293. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Health if he will amend the Patient Safety Bill to include amendments to Section 9 of the Health Act, 2007 in order to widen the powers of the Minister for Health to direct a statutory enquiry in certain cases of maternal and infant deaths; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20030/24]
View answerWritten answers
An amendment to the Health Act 2007 has already been made in this regard through the enactment of the Patient Safety (Notifiable Incidents and Open Disclosure) Act 2023.
Section 64 of the Patient Safety (Notifiable Incidents and Open Disclosure) Act 2023 amends Section 9 of the Health Act 2007. This amendment was made to clarify and strengthen relevant Ministers’ powers to request an investigation, by HIQA, into serious risks that may exist in Ireland’s health and social care services. Section 9 of the Health Act 2007, as amended, gives the Minister for Health and Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the power to direct HIQA to undertake an investigation, to address serious ongoing risks to patient safety in Ireland's health and social care services, including maternity services.
Health Services
Questions (294)
Réada Cronin
Question:294. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Health when families and service users in North Kildare will have access to details of the SIA report in the matter of delivery of services and arrangements re HSE/St. John of God; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20034/24]
View answer
Awaiting reply from Department.
Medicinal Products
Questions (295)
Violet-Anne Wynne
Question:295. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Health if a product approved under the MCAP, as listed on S.I. No. 5/2023, can be prescribed to the holder of a valid Ministerial licence; if the licence holder can purchase their prescribed product at a pharmacy in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20060/24]
View answerWritten answers
A Ministerial Licence issued pursuant to Section 14 for the Misuse of Drugs entitles the clinician licencee to prescribe, import, supply , possess and administer a cannabis-based product containing Tetrahydrocannabinol.
The decision on what to prescribe is a clinical decision in which neither the Minister for Health nor the Department of Health has a role.
As the products are Schedule 1 controlled drugs in the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2017 the necessary licences must be in place under the Misuse of Drugs Act, other than for the prescribing clinicians, for possession and supply of the prescribed cannabis-based products by other stakeholders such as wholesalers and pharmacists.
Cancer Services
Questions (296)
Violet-Anne Wynne
Question:296. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that women are now being asked to prove that they have breast cancer in order to avail of the two bras and prothesis (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20064/24]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Medical Cards
Questions (297)
Violet-Anne Wynne
Question:297. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Health if he intends to scrap the medical card review for the over-70s; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20068/24]
View answerWritten answers
Medical Card provision is primarily based on financial assessment. In accordance with the Health Act 1970 (as amended), eligibility for a medical card is determined by the HSE, which assesses each application on a qualifying financial threshold.
Persons aged 70 or older are assessed under the over 70s medical card income thresholds which are based on gross income. It should be noted that in November 2020, the weekly gross medical card income thresholds for those aged 70 and over were increased to €550 per week for a single person and €1,050 for a couple.
The HSE is also required to undertake periodic reviews of eligibility in order to ensure that a person continues to meet the qualifying criteria required to continue holding eligibility. Where any medical or GP visit card holder has a review process initiated, it should be noted that he/she will continue to retain their eligibility for the duration of the review process.
However, every effort is made by the HSE, within the framework of the legislation, to support applicants in applying for a medical card and, in particular, to take full account of the difficult circumstances in the case of applicants who may be in excess of the income guidelines. The HSE may exercise discretion and grant a medical card, even though an applicant exceeds the income threshold where they face difficult financial circumstances, such as extra costs arising from an illness. Social and medical issues are also considered when determining whether undue hardship exists for an individual accessing general practitioner or other medical services.
I can assure the Deputy that, in order to ensure the medical card system is responsive and sensitive to people's needs, my Department keeps medical card issues under review, and has commenced a comprehensive review and appraisal of the arrangements that underpin the existing eligibility framework. This is a significant programme of work, intended to ensure that the eligibility criteria for health services continue to be appropriate and can ensure fair and equitable access to health services for people who need them. The work to be undertaken will include an examination of the current administration and provision of medical cards by the HSE. The Department of Health will work with the HSE in the coming months to progress this review of eligibility and related matters.
Emergency Departments
Questions (298)
Violet-Anne Wynne
Question:298. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Health if he can clarify whether all clinical staff in emergency departments are familiar with and receive training in the National Clinical Guidelines No. 6: Sepsis Management; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20069/24]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputies question relates to a service issue, I have referred the question to the Health Service Executive for consideration and direct reply to the Deputy.
Dental Services
Questions (299)
Michael Healy-Rae
Question:299. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if he will address a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20071/24]
View answerWritten answers
The Dental Treatment Services Scheme (DTSS) provides dental care, free of charge, to medical card holders aged 16 and over. Services available annually and on demand include an examination including preventative elements, two fillings, extractions, and a scale and polish. More complex care, such as dentures, additional fillings and a broader range of treatments for patients with additional needs and high-risk patients, are available subject to the approval of the local HSE Principal Dental Surgeon.To support practitioners to provide care under the Scheme, I approved a range of measures that were put in place on 1 May 2022 to introduce and reintroduce elements of preventative care and increase the fees paid to dental contractors for most treatment items by 40-60%. In 2023, 154,864 additional treatments were provided under the DTSS, with over 26,700 extra patients treated when compared with 2022.In the longer term, the Government is committed to reforming dental services, including the DTSS, through the implementation of the National Oral Health Policy (NOHP), Smile agus Sláinte. An implementation plan for the 2024-2026 phase of rollout is being drafted by my Department and the HSE. The HSE's Strategic Reform Lead is driving policy implementation across the organisation and developing new services. The HSE's National Service Plan (NSP) for 2024 captures a range of priorities that are essential prerequisites to a new contract for care for adult medical card holders: - Development of a comprehensive phased policy implementation plan for the range of actions identified in the policy, including stakeholder engagement and resource identification; and- The design of clinical elements for reformed preventative care for adult medical cardholders as referenced in the policy.(Progression of oral healthcare packages for children aged from birth to seven years of age is also an NSP priority for 2024.) The National Oral Health Policy also contains a range of strategic workforce planning actions to increase workforce capacity, in support of improving patient's access to care. To support this work, my Department is currently finalising a workforce census for oral healthcare.
Medicinal Products
Questions (300)
Alan Kelly
Question:300. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health if the drug pembrolisumab is approved by the MHRA and available for reimbursement to the patients that are prescribed it. [20086/24]
View answer
Awaiting reply from Department.
Hospital Appointments Status
Questions (301)
Michael Healy-Rae
Question:301. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if an appointment for a child (details supplied) can be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20088/24]
View answerWritten answers
Under the Health Act 2004, the Health Service Executive (HSE) is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. Section 6 of the HSE Governance Act 2013 bars the Minister for Health from directing the HSE to provide a treatment or a personal service to any individual or to confer eligibility on any individual.
In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Eating Disorders
Questions (302)
Catherine Connolly
Question:302. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Health the status of the roll-out of the new national model of care for eating disorders; the reason for the delay in the delivery of the promised 20 new inpatient beds; the timeline for when these 20 new beds will be delivered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20091/24]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy will be aware, eating disorders can be very complex, very individual and can be one of the most serious mental health illnesses.
Historically, there has been a lack of publicly funded services for people with eating disorders in Ireland. This is now changing, with the Model of Care for the National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders launched in 2018. Since I came to Office in July 2020, I have prioritised the roll out of the National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders.
90% of eating disorder services are now delivered within the community, which research shows is the most effective treatment. It is recognised that a small number of people, mainly with restrictive eating disorders such as anorexia, will require inpatient care for short periods for stabilisation and refeeding.
The National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders is being implemented across the country by multidisciplinary teams on a phased basis. There are now 11 teams in place: 6 Adult and 5 CAMHS teams. It takes 12-18 months to set up a multi-disciplinary team, led by a Consultant Psychiatrist. While funding to roll out teams has been in place for several years, recruitment during the COVID-19 pandemic was very challenging. Six new teams started in 2023. There are now 100 people working across eating disorder teams, including 80 eating disorder Clinicians with 10 Consultant Psychiatrists. It is my stated intention to continue to deliver expanded services for people with eating disorders, through reaching the planned 16 specialist teams. One additional team of specialist eating disorder clinicians has been funded under Budget 2024.
Earlier this week, I announced increased funding for community eating disorder services in Ireland, with funding for a new Adult eating disorder team, based in CH07 which covers Kildare/West Wicklow, Dublin West, Dublin South City, Dublin South West.
This announcement brings the number of eating disorder teams across the country to 12
In 2023, 385 people had an eating disorder diagnosis. It is important to note that in the same year, 343 people with an eating disorder diagnosis were discharged from specialist services back to their GP.
The HSE works hard to meet the needs of people with eating disorders in the setting most appropriate to their needs, whether that be community eating disorder teams, beds in the public system, specialist beds from private providers (funded by the HSE) or under the Treatment Abroad Scheme. Since 2020, 14 people have availed of the Treatment Abroad Scheme.
Adults who have an eating disorder diagnosis and require inpatient care can be referred to any of the HSE 66 acute in-patient mental health approved centres around the country. I do accept that not all of these approved centres may have the specialist expertise available as required for all cases. New pathways have been developed between the 6 specialist Adult eating disorder teams and the relevant approved centres in their particular area to provide liaison supports.
Eating disorders affect a relatively young section of the population, with over two-thirds of referrals to the National Clinical Programme last year involving young people under 18. There are currently 20 dedicated eating disorder beds across the four 4 CAMHS in-patient units. As of today, 25% of these beds were unoccupied.
Following increased demand for services, and the recent preliminary Census 2022 data showing an overall increase in population, a review of the Model of Care for Eating Disorders is planned during 2024. The outcome of this review will inform the eating disorder teams’ staffing requirements from 2025 onwards. In addition, a review of bed capacity across all mental health facilities – including adult eating disorder beds – has taken place and is under consideration by the HSE. I am of the opinion that there has to be a geographical focus on adult eating disorder beds.
A dedicated investment in eating disorders continues, and last year the HSE spent €8.1m on eating disorder services, with a further €4.5m spent on specialist treatment through the Treatment Abroad Scheme. In addition, €750,000 has been allocated since 2021 by the Department of Health Women’s Health Fund to provide for consultant medical/paediatric and hospital dietitian sessions. This core funding is in place for each year.
I want to reassure the Deputy that I remain firmly committed to enhancing specialist services for eating disorders, including improved access and shorter waiting lists.
Eating Disorders
Questions (303)
Catherine Connolly
Question:303. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Health the status of the roll-out of eating disorder outpatient teams across the country; the number of teams established to-date and the locations of same; the funding allocated to eating disorder outpatient teams in 2023 and 2024; his plans to allocate additional funding to eating disorder outpatient teams; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20092/24]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy will appreciate, eating disorders are very complex, very individual and can be one of the most serious mental health illnesses.
Historically, there has been a lack of publicly funded services for people with eating disorders in Ireland. This is now changing, with the Model of Care for the National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders launched in 2018. Since I have come to Office in July 2020, I have prioritised the roll out of the National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders.
90% of eating disorder services are now delivered within the community which research shows is the most effective treatment. It is recognised that a small number of people, mainly with restrictive eating disorders such as anorexia, will require inpatient care for short periods for stabilisation and refeeding.
The National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders is being implemented across the country by multidisciplinary teams on a phased basis. There are now 11 teams in place: 6 Adult and 5 CAMHS teams. It takes 12-18 months to set up a multi-disciplinary team, led by a Consultant Psychiatrist. While funding to roll out teams has been in place for several years, recruitment during the COVID-19 pandemic was very challenging. Six new teams started in 2023. There are now 100 people working across eating disorder teams, including 80 eating disorder Clinicians with 10 Consultant Psychiatrists. It is my stated intention to continue to deliver expanded services for people with eating disorders, through reaching the planned 16 specialist teams. One additional team of specialist eating disorder Clinicians has been funded under Budget 2024.
The location of the 11 eating disorder teams at HSE CHO level is as follows:
• CAMHS ED CH04 (Cork/Kerry)
• CAMHS ED CH07 (Dublin/Kildare/Wicklow)
• Adult ED CH06 (Dublin/Wicklow)
• Adult ED CH09 (Dublin North City & County)
• Adult ED CH04 (Cork/Kerry)
• CAMHS ED CH02 (Galway/Roscommon/Mayo)
• Adult ED CH01 (Sligo/Leitrim and Cavan/Monaghan)
• Adult ED CH05 ( Tipperary/Carlow/Kilkenny/Waterford/Wexford)
• CAMHS ED CH09 (Dublin North City & County)
• CAMHS ED CH06 (Dublin/Wicklow)
In 2023, 385 people had an eating disorder diagnosis. It is important to note that in the same year, 343 people with an eating disorder diagnosis were discharged from specialist services back to their GP.
The HSE works hard to meet the needs of people with eating disorders in the setting most appropriate to their needs, whether that be community eating disorder teams, beds in the public system, specialist beds from private providers (funded by the HSE) or under the Treatment Abroad Scheme. Since 2020, 14 people have availed of the Treatment Abroad Scheme.
Adults who have an eating disorder diagnosis and require inpatient care can be referred to any of the 66 HSE acute in-patient mental health approved centres nationally. I do accept that not all of these approved centres may have the specialist expertise available and in situ as required for all cases. New pathways have been developed between the 6 specialist Adult eating disorder teams and the relevant approved centres in their particular area to provide liaison supports.
Eating disorders affect a relatively young section of the population, with over two-thirds of referrals to the National Clinical Programme last year involving young people under 18. There are 20 dedicated eating disorder beds across the four 4 CAMHS in-patient units. At present, there is no waiting list for young people to access these dedicated eating disorder beds.
Following increased demand for services, and recent preliminary Census 2022 data showing an overall increase in population, a review of the Model of Care for Eating Disorders is planned during 2024. The outcome of this review will inform the eating disorder teams’ staffing requirements from 2025 onwards. In addition, a review of bed capacity across all mental health facilities – including adult eating disorder beds – has taken place and is under consideration by the HSE. I am of the opinion that there has to be a geographical focus on adult eating disorder beds.
A dedicated investment in eating disorders continues, and last year the HSE spent €8.1m on eating disorder services, with a further €4.5m spent on specialist treatment through the Treatment Abroad Scheme. In addition, €750,000 has been allocated since 2021 by the Department of Health Women’s Health Fund to provide for consultant medical/paediatric and hospital dietitian sessions.
As part of my continued drive to improve eating disorder services, I recently announced increased funding for an additional adult eating disorder team. This team will be based in CH07, which will cover the area of Kildare/West Wicklow, Dublin West, Dublin South City, and Dublin South West. This will bring the total number of eating disorder teams nationally to 12.
I want to reassure the Deputy that I remain firmly committed to enhancing specialist services for eating disorders, including improved access and shorter waiting lists.
Health Services
Questions (304)
Brendan Smith
Question:304. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure that adequate funding is provided directly from his Department or through the HSE to an association which provides important services for persons who have suffered ill health (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20093/24]
View answerWritten answers
Thanks to continued investment in Health Services, Ireland has seen a decline in the number of deaths from cardiovascular disease (CVD). Since 2012, the mortality rate from heart disease has been reduced by 38%, mortality from stroke has been reduced by 48%.
• However, CVD remains a significant challenge claiming 9,000 lives annually.
• The Government acknowledges the vital support, education, and advocacy offered by the Irish Heart Foundation and other patient support groups.
• Many patient services are embedded in policy, including the National Stroke Strategy 2022-2027 for which the government has provided over €7m to date.
• Partnerships and collaboration are and will continue to be, enablers of our commitment to promoting the cardiovascular health of our nation.
• In 2022 and 2023, the HSE's National Heart Programme, supported through the Enhanced Community Care Programme, sponsored two CVD risk prevention projects with the IHF.
• The State, via the HSE, provides funding to the IHF, and other cardiovascular support agencies of approximately €530,000 through Service Level Agreements and Grant Aid Agreements of which €380,000 was allocated to IHF in 2024 .
• In 2024, the HSE advise that an additional once-off sum of €400,000 has been allocated to the Irish Heart Foundation's for a High-Risk CVD Prevention Programme which has demonstrated its effectiveness by enhancing healthcare provision, clinical outcomes, and health behaviours in patients living in deprived communities.
Health Services
Questions (305)
Bernard Durkan
Question:305. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health when it is expected to make a refund contribution to a person (details supplied); if his case can be examined with a view to resolution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20128/24]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Home Care Packages
Questions (306)
Bernard Durkan
Question:306. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the extent to which homecare packages are readily available in the CHO7 region to candidates who urgently require them; the efforts currently in hand to ensure all allocated homecare package hours are being actioned and administered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20141/24]
View answerWritten answers
As this is an operational matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Nursing Homes
Questions (307)
Bernard Durkan
Question:307. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the number of fair deal applications applied for in each of the past five years to date; the numbers granted, refused or pending; the number appealed and overturned on appeal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20142/24]
View answerWritten answers
As this is an operational matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
Medicinal Products
Questions (308)
Bernard Durkan
Question:308. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the total number of rare and orphan drugs currently being evaluated for use in Ireland; the length of time that is normally required for this process; the drugs that have taken an inordinate amount of time to evaluate and approve for use here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20143/24]
View answerWritten answers
Under the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013, the HSE has statutory responsibility for decisions on the pricing and reimbursement of medicines; therefore, the matter has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
Health Services Staff
Questions (309)
Bernard Durkan
Question:309. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the action being taken to ensure the availability of an adequate number of health professionals within the health services, including, but not limited to, consultants, GPs and nurses to meet the demand in all areas throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20144/24]
View answerWritten answers
Health and Social Care workforce planning and ensuring an appropriate pipeline of suitably qualified healthcare professionals in Ireland is a top priority for this Government.
The lifetime of this Government has seen unprecedented level of investment in the health and social care services. As of March 2024, there are 28,480 more staff (inclusive of Disabilities) working in our health and social care services than there were at the beginning of 2020. That’s a 24% increase in this period and includes an additional 9,614 nurses and midwives; 4,240 health and social care professionals; and 3,015 doctors and dentists. Funding for an additional 2,268 permanent staff was secured for the recruitment to New Developments in 2024.
The Government is aware of the workforce issues facing general practice and is working to increase the number of GPs practicing throughout the country and thereby to improve access to GP services.
Under the 2019 GP Agreement additional annual expenditure provided for general practice was increased by €211.6m. This provided for significant increases in capitation fees for participating GMS GPs, and new fees for additional services and increased practice supports. The GP Agreement 2023 further increased GP capitation fees, increased the existing subsidy rates for practice staff, and introduced a grant support for additional staff capacity as well a practice staff maternity leave support. These measures increase the attractiveness of general practice in Ireland as a career for doctors.
The number of doctors entering GP training has been increased significantly in recent years, with 286 new entrants in 2023 and 350 places planned for new entrants for this year. Annual intake to the GP training scheme has been increased by over 80% from 2015 to 2023, and the number of new entrant places to be available this year is a 22% increase on last year's intake alone. In addition, GP recruitment is ongoing under the joint International Medical Graduate Rural GP Programme between the HSE and ICGP. 112 non-EU GPs were recruited last year under the training programme, and it is planned to recruit up to 250 more GPs from outside Ireland to the country this year. The placement of GPs under the programme is targeted to rural and underserviced areas.
My department works in close collaboration with Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and the Higher Education Sector to significantly increase the number of student places across health-related disciplines.
In July 2022, an agreement was reached with the Irish Medical Schools which will see the number of Irish/EU medicine student places increase by 200 by 2026. There was a significant increase in the number of additional student places available on health-related courses in 2023. In total, over 660 additional student places have been provided in medicine, nursing and midwifery, pharmacy, and other key healthcare courses in academic year 2023/24. This includes over 220 student places across Nursing and Midwifery and Allied Health Professional courses in Northern Ireland.
An agreement has been reached between Queen’s University Belfast, Department of Health, and the Department of Further and Higher Education, which will see 25 additional medical places being made available for qualifying students from Ireland or Northern Ireland in QUB in September 2024, and a further twenty-five places in September 2025 bringing the total number of additional medicine student places available in Northern Ireland to 50.
Health Services
Questions (310)
Bernard Durkan
Question:310. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied that the health services can be co-ordinated in such a way as to ensure a modern response to patients' needs in all areas throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20145/24]
View answerWritten answers
I can assure the Deputy that considerable progress is being made in the ongoing effort to integrate our health and social care services, and to ensure that patients have access to safe, timely, affordable care that is coordinated in an integrated manner.
On 4th March, the HSE was reorganised into six operational Health Regions. This represents one of the most significant reforms to our health and social care service in recent years. The HSE Health Regions, each led by a Region Executive Officer (REO), will have responsibility for the planning and coordinated delivery of the vast majority of health and social care services to their respective populations. The six REOs have commenced in their post earlier this year and are now driving the regional implementation of this reform. As part of the transition, the HSE is actively developing an Integrated Service Delivery model focused on the provision of multidisciplinary, community-based care. Integrated Healthcare Areas (IHAs) will be the core units of integrated care delivery within the Regions and will comprise both acute and community services.
The Health Regions will also take a population-based approach to how it plans, funds and delivers care – this is an approach that was championed by the Sláintecare Report. This means we will be delivering services which are informed by the health needs of the population. In March, the Department established a PBRA Expert Group to develop a Population-Based Resourcing Approach, the goal of which is to ensure that each region is provided with a fair and equitable share of the existing healthcare resources which is informed by population health need.
Alongside the Health Regions reform, other important developments have continued to progress, for example, the continued implementation of the Enhanced Community Care (ECC) Programme, with annual funding of €195 million. To date:
• All 96 of the planned 96 Community Healthcare Networks (CHNs) are now operational.
• 27 of 30 Community Specialist Teams (CSTs) for Older Persons are now established.
• 26 of 30 Community Specialist Teams for Chronic Disease Management are now established.
• 23 Community Intervention Teams (CITs) are operational with national coverage secured.
• 80% of the Programme's recruitment target has been achieved, with 2,766 WTEs onboarded and a further 41 WTEs at an advanced stage of recruitment.
The Community Healthcare Networks (CHNs) - for the first time in Ireland - provide for the integration of General Practice (GP) with wider community services. They act as the foundational structures of community-based care within the new Integrated Healthcare Areas (IHAs). Alongside these, the Community Specialist Teams (CSTs) provide consultant-led multi-disciplinary care to older persons, and those with chronic disease, in the community. The Community Intervention Teams (CITs) seek to prevent unnecessary hospital admission or attendance, and to facilitate early discharge of patients appropriate for CIT care. Through its fast-tracked provision of services, the CIT provides access to nursing and home care support seven days per week. The CITs provide a range of services including the administration of home IV antibiotics, acute anticoagulation care, acute wound care and dressings, enhanced nurse monitoring following fractures, falls or surgery, care of a patient with a central venous catheter and urinary related care, among others. Combined, these represent a re-orienting of care provision towards primary and community care setting, enabling quicker access to care and more local decision-making.
The continued delivery of the GP Access to Community Diagnostics (GPACD) initiative ensures that GPs can access this specific suite of diagnostic tests quickly for their patients, without the patient requiring referral to a consultant, and without having to attend hospital. GPACD enables a greater level of care to be delivered in general practice, located in the community, supporting patient-centred care, early diagnosis, and early intervention. In 2023 the GPACD scheme provided a total of 339,984 community diagnostic radiology scans including X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans and DEXA to patients referred directly by their GPs to contracted private providers, located in convenient settings within the community and closer to home, with a further 92,000 community radiology scans, alongside CDM diagnostics such as the 35,643 NT-proBNP blood tests, provided to end of March 2024.
While none of these initiatives alone are a panacea for all the challenges our system experiences, each are a necessary step towards providing rapid access to better, high-quality care for patients. When combined, these important programmes complement each other and serve to enable the integrated coordination of our acute, community and primary care in a way that is modern, equitable, and responsive to the health needs of the people of the country.
Mental Health Services
Questions (311)
Bernard Durkan
Question:311. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the steps that are being taken to increase adult mental health services in CHO7; if the precise measures deemed to be necessary are being taken forthwith; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20146/24]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Medical Cards
Questions (312)
Bernard Durkan
Question:312. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the number of medical cards reviews undertaken in each year in the past five years to date; the number of medical cards rescinded post-review in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20147/24]
View answerWritten answers
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.