Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

The number of smear tests nationally has increased by almost 20% in recent years and additional cumulative funding of €11 million was provided by the Department since 2002 to assist the laboratories in meeting this demand and improving colposcopy services. The Department is also investing in new technology through extending the use of liquid-based cytology.

International evidence is that better clinical outcomes are achieved in hospitals with specialist staff, high volumes of activity and access to appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic facilities. Best results in treatment are achieved where patients are treated by staff working as part of an integrated multidisciplinary specialist team.

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