Mr. Tony O'Brien:

We publish detailed data in each of our performance assurance reports on palliative care. I think the sort of referral may go some way to answering the question. For those gaining access to palliative care as an inpatient, 49% are referred from their home, 47% from an acute hospital, from which we infer that it is geographically proximate, 2% from a care home and 2% from a non-acute intermediate care or private bed. The primary diagnosis breaks down at 88% cancer and 12% non-cancer. In the age breakdown, less than 1% are aged up to 17 years; 30% are aged 18 to 64 years; and 69% are 65 years or over. Access is reasonably timely.

Deputy Catherine Byrne asked a related question about palliative care in the home. That is comprehensive care and I can provide the Deputy with the detailed answer but it would include infusions, pumps and dressings.