Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 369: To ask the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding appointment delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38291/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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I am determined to address the issues which cause unacceptable delays in patients receiving treatment in our hospitals. In this regard I have established the Special Delivery Unit (SDU), which will work to unblock access to acute services by dramatically improving the flow of patients through the system, and by streamlining waiting lists, including referrals from GPs. The SDU is working closely with its partner agencies - mainly the HSE and the NTPF.

As a priority, public hospitals have been instructed to ensure that, by the end of 2011, they have no patients waiting more than 12 months for treatment. Where they fail to do so, the NTPF will source the necessary treatments elsewhere and an appropriate budgetary adjustment will be made. In relation to out patient appointments, long waiting times to see consultants and to access diagnostic services are a barrier to an efficient health service. In accordance with the HSE Service Plan for 2011 the Executive has undertaken an OPD Data Quality Programme in 2011 to help address deficiencies and to improve data quality in respect of both demand and access to OPD services to enable better management of OPD. During 2012 the SDU will focus its resources on this issue. It is envisaged that by the end of 2012 efficient collection of out patient data will facilitate the implementation of a transparent and responsive out patient appointments system.