Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
919. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health if there is currently a national waiting list in operation for adults requiring spinal fusion surgery; and if so, the current waiting times on this list. [14057/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is acknowledged that many patients are still waiting too long for hospital appointments and treatments. I am conscious of the burden that this places on patients and their families.
I published the Waiting Time Action Plan (WTAP) for 2026 on January 30th, as part of this Government’s ongoing commitment to improving access to hospital care and reducing waiting times for patients.
The multi-annual Action Plan approach was implemented in September 2021 to sustainably reduce and reform hospital waiting lists and waiting times. Significant progress has been made under this approach in reducing the length of time patients are waiting.
With the 2026 plan, we will continue to build upon the progress delivered to date under the multi annual action plan approach, moving towards the ultimate vision of a public healthcare service in which everyone has timely access to high-quality scheduled care, where and when they need it.
In relation to the specific information requested by the Deputy, the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) has provided my Department with the attached spreadsheet, which sets out the waiting list for adult spinal fusion by time band and by hospital.
IPDC spinal fusion waiting list for adults by time band and by hospital
