Michael D'Arcy (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 25: To ask the Minister for Health and Children when the two extra consultant radiologists for Tallaght hospital will be put in place; the way the total number of WTE consultant radiologists at the hospital compares to international best practice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41930/10]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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Since 2005 there has been a 34% national increase in the numbers of consultant radiologists, from 183 to 245. Ireland now has a ratio of 1 consultant radiologist per 17,959 population, which is similar to the UK at 1 per 18,040 per population.

There are currently 5.54 adult consultant radiologists and 2 paediatric consultant radiologists at Tallaght Hospital. An additional 2 locum consultant radiologists were appointed to the hospital in January 2010 to assist in dealing with the backlog of X-rays. The backlog has been cleared and currently there are 0.54 locums in post at the hospital. However, on 7 September 2010 the HSE issued formal approval to Tallaght Hospital to appoint two new consultant radiologists. This is in line with the recommendations of the Hayes Report. Interviews are expected to take place next month and the two successful candidates will take up duty be as soon as possible in 2011.

The Hayes Report recommended that consultant radiologist staffing levels should be reviewed to ensure they are appropriate to the work load in each radiology department. The HSE is committed to carrying out a review of consultant radiologist staffing levels in hospitals and to strengthening workforce planning across all radiology departments. The review will be informed by the results of a survey of consultant radiologist staffing which is currently being undertaken by the Faculty of Radiology. The aim is to complete this study by the end of the year.

The HSE is committed to implementing the recommendations of the Hayes report as soon as possible. I am confident that adopting this approach will help ensure the provision of a timely and quality radiology service in Tallaght Hospital.