Hospital Transfers

Tuesday, 27 January 2026

Ceisteanna (1101)

Sean Fleming

Ceist:

1101. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Health the total number of children referred for spinal surgery under outsourcing arrangements since the initiative commenced; the number of children who have travelled or been treated to date; the breakdown, by destination hospital and by year, including Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital (New York), Great Ormond Street Hospital (London), the Blackrock Clinic, and any other national sites; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6317/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Health

I 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.