Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Byrne for raising this issue in the House and giving me an opportunity to address it. I am advised that the University Limerick hospital group recognises the need for the appointment of a clinical nurse specialist post in neurology. The national clinical programme for neurology clearly outlines the resource requirements for the neurology service across the University Hospital Limerick site and nationally to achieve the best outcomes for neurology patients in line with best international practice. The neurology model of care also recommends the appointment of a clinical nurse specialist as part of a multidisciplinary team treating patients with MS. It is in this context that the University Limerick hospital group has taken the decision to prioritise the recruitment of an MS nurse. I understand a job application for this position has been finalised by the University Limerick hospital group for submission to the HSE national recruitment service.

It is timely for me to use this opportunity to update the House on developments with the model of care for neurology services. The national clinical programme for neurology has developed and published a model of care for neurology services, which provides a framework for neurology services to be delivered through an integrated service approach. It is intended that such services will be delivered in an efficient, equitable manner by supported, skilled professionals working in a multidisciplinary manner using a person-centred approach to care. The model of care promotes best practice in the delivery of neurology services by adopting key international standards and promoting support for evidence-based and research-led practice throughout the service. At the centre of the model of care for neurology is the role of cohesive and comprehensive multidisciplinary team care in the management of patients. The model envisages audiologists, nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and other health and social care professionals working with patients and collaborating with specialist colleagues in providing optimal care for patients in the Irish healthcare system.

The purpose of the clinical nurse specialist post within this broader team is to improve and enhance the care of patients and their families by improving existing services and developing new services with regard to neurology and to assist overall in optimising the quality and continuity of care. The clinical nurse specialist will work as a key member of the multidisciplinary team in the hospital service providing physical, psychological and emotional support to neurology patients and their families. He or she will act as a liaison between community services, primary care teams and other agencies.

It is my understanding that the University Limerick hospital group will continue to work with the national clinical programme for neurology and is prioritising the recruitment of the clinical nurse specialist post within that context to progress the need for further strategic development of neurology services in the mid-west region.