Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
1103. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Health to outline the agreed plan of care for children returning to Ireland following spinal surgery under outsourcing arrangements; who assumes clinical responsibility on their return; the way in which follow-up care is coordinated; the service-level agreements that exist to ensure continuity of care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6320/26]
View answerI am cognisant of the challenges families have faced in relation to paediatric orthopaedic services, in particular spinal services, and I am actively driving multiple efforts to address these challenges.
Several initiatives are underway to help improve access to services including a ringfenced theatre, additional outpatient clinics, and national and international outsourcing to maximise capacity.
As this is an operational matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
