Michelle Mulherin (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

With regard to the issue of people on trolleys in emergency departments, I compliment the Minister, who has not been ducking and diving. In December 2014 he convened an emergency department task force. The reality is that there has been a serious conversation and a serious analysis of the issues leading to the overuse of trolleys, and a serious effort has been made to address it. Sometimes that is forgotten in the very hard cases that we hear of, and without doubt it is serious when people, especially the elderly, end up on trolleys. When the top people in the HSE work with the Minister, there is a concerted effort to find a solution. It is not a simple solution. A multifaceted approach is required to address delayed discharges, including improving access to diagnostic procedures. It is a question of ensuring that people go through the system more quickly and that those who need to leave have an appropriate bed to go to, whether in a step-down or a nursing home facility, or, if going back to their own home, that they have a home care package or something of that sort. It is quite complex. In the case of Mayo General Hospital, there has been an increasing demand. From the beginning of the year to date, aside from the surges, we have seen a 1% increase in demand. The much-talked-about issue of an aging population is not in the future; it is now. We see more elderly people presenting with chronic illness who are in our hospitals in medical beds.

In the brief time available to me, I compliment the Minister, whom I have approached with many health issues. The investment in Ballina District Hospital means that all step-down beds are open; this has also happened in Swinford District Hospital and, to a certain extent, Belmullet Community Hospital. This all helps the situation. Ten extra full-time permanent staff are employed. The hospital and staff do a great job. Prior to the establishment of the task force, Mayo General Hospital achieved a substantial reduction in the number of people on trolleys simply by implementing a change of approach to bed management and addressing the issues of delayed discharges and so on. Ultimately, however, there is an increase in demand across the board, which has undone some of the good work done.

In respect of the fair deal scheme, this time last year there were 79 people in Mayo waiting to be approved and validated. Today, there are four people waiting for approval. That means more people can get into nursing homes. The focus on home help, home care packages and so on has helped people to remain in their homes.

There has been increased investment in primary care centres and services. Much good work has been done but until we eradicate the trolley issue or bring it to a position of minimal effect, the work will not be completed.

I pay tribute to the management and staff of Mayo General Hospital and particularly those who work in the accident and emergency department there. They demonstrate out and out commitment to providing the best possible care for patients. They are very pragmatic and, especially when we see so many people in the accident and emergency department and on trolleys, it can be very trying for patients and staff. We must continue to work towards a solution and I know that is what the Minister is about. He has my support in that regard. It is worthwhile to show all the efforts that have been made as it is a complex issue.

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