Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 46: To ask the Minister for Health and Children when the prospectus review of critical care services will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45300/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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In 2008 the HSE commissioned Prospectus Strategy Consultants to carry out a comprehensive review of adult critical care services. The brief was to consider the current provision of adult critical care services in the public health system and to provide advice on the appropriate model and configuration of critical care provision. It was also asked to advise on related matters such as appropriate governance arrangements, HR, work practice, clinical audit and training issues, as well as supporting provisions such as transport and infrastructure.

The Prospectus Team included four international advisors, together with two critical care experts nominated by the Intensive Care Society. Their work included site visits to each of 37 hospitals with Critical Care facilities, a 30-day survey and audit of critical care activity in each hospital, stakeholder consultation and a review of best international practice.

The HSE has recently received the final report and is examining it at present. This is a significant piece of work, which will inform decisions about the future provision and organisation of this key element of the acute hospital system. A date for publication of the report has not been decided as yet.