Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 13: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the reason St. Vincent's Hospital has more radiologists than Tallaght hospital, in view of the fact that Tallaght hospital conducts twice the amount of X-rays; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41928/10]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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It is important to use caution when comparing staffing levels of hospitals. Different criteria must also be considered in making any such comparisons, including the catchment area served, the population and number of patients attending and the availability of other radiological services to patients locally.

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 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.