Maura Hopkins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I raise concerns regarding stroke services. This morning, the Irish Heart Foundation launched its stroke manifesto. I, the Irish Heart Foundation, the many people throughout the country who have had strokes and their families have a number of very serious concerns. While we know there have been improvements, particularly in terms of acute care, there are serious challenges with regard to access to specialist and timely rehabilitation.We know that stroke is the biggest cause of adult physical disability in this country. We know that access to specialist and timely rehabilitation can improve patient outcomes. We also know that there are significant challenges in community settings with regard to long-term support and long-term rehabilitation for people who are living in the community. We also need to ensure that we avoid the prospect of people going to long-term care when they could be cared for at home with proper supports.

I also raise concerns over the prevention end. GPs should routinely carry out A-fib and blood pressure screening, which must be part of the new GP contract. We need to recognise the urgency with which changes need to be made with regard to stroke services. The Irish Heart Foundation is not asking for more resources. It is asking for a restructuring of services putting more money into rehabilitation and community services so that we are not spending increased unnecessary amounts of money on long-term care.