Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for the important question. I can assure him the HSE has advised there are no current plans to reconfigure the cardiology services in County Louth and the north-east region which are currently provided in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, with consultants with cross-site commitment in the Mater Hospital. In addition, vascular surgeons from Beaumont Hospital provide an outpatient and varicose vein surgery service in Louth County Hospital, which I have had the pleasure of visiting.

The national cardiovascular policy 2010-19 made recommendations across a range of areas, including prevention, primary care, acute services and rehabilitation. These continue to be implemented by the HSE and its clinical programmes on heart failure, acute coronary syndrome and stroke. Since the publication of the policy, there have been a number of service developments, including structured care for heart failure, the expansion of stroke services and the provision of thrombolysis. Given the ongoing implementation of the policy, there are no changes proposed beyond the scope of the policy at this time. It should be noted, however, that a national review of specialist cardiac services started work on 31 January 2018 and has been welcomed by Deputies on a cross-party basis. Given the breadth of the review, it is possible that some of its recommendations may have an impact on cardiovascular services. However, the review is still in its early stages and a final report is not expected until 2019. There will also be an opportunity through public consultation for all citizens and stakeholders to give their view in regard to how we can further improve cardiac services.

I reiterate to the Deputy, so I do not create any confusion or ambiguity, that the HSE has advised there are no current plans to reconfigure the services referred to in the Deputy's question. I will be happy to arrange a more comprehensive briefing for the Deputy with the HSE to provide him with assurances in that regard.

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