Dr. Áine Carroll:

With reference to the question about orthopaedic appointments, the orthopaedic and rheumatology clinical care programmes have been working together on the issue of waiting lists. They are also working with the special deliver' unit, SDU, from a scheduled care point of view. The orthopaedics and rheumatology programme has developed a model of care. A number of referrals to orthopaedic clinics do not need to be seen by an orthopaedic surgeon. It is important that there is an appropriate amount of screening to ensure that individuals who do not require to be seen by an orthopaedic surgeon are seen and treated appropriately. The model of care developed a number of musculoskeletal physiotherapy posts. The plan is that in excess of 24,000 individuals will be screened and managed at that level rather than at orthopaedic clinics. This will have a huge impact on outpatient waiting lists at orthopaedic clinics.