Written answers

Wednesday, 20 March 2013

Department of Health

Health Services Issues

Photo of Gerry AdamsGerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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To ask the Minister for Health the steps being taken to introduce a bilateral cochlear implant programme; the staff that are being recruited for the proposes of the introduction of the programme; when he envisages the staff being in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14162/13]

Photo of Gerry AdamsGerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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To ask the Minister for Health if funding and resources have been secured to provide for the introduction of a bilateral cochlear implant programme from 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14163/13]

Photo of Gerry AdamsGerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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To ask the Minister for Health the process by which children who have already been fitted with a single cochlear implant will be fitted with second implant once a bilateral implant programme is introduced; the time frame in which he envisages children who currently have only one implant will be fitted with a second implant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14164/13]

Photo of James ReillyJames Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 464 to 466, inclusive, together.

Since the national cochlear implant programme commenced seventeen years ago, over 700 patients have received cochlear implants. I am advised that, in 2012, ninety cochlear implants were carried out with 42 children receiving implants and 48 adults. In addition to providing the surgical services, the programme provides a comprehensive assessment service to potential candidates and a rehabilitative service to those actually implanted.

In 2009 a National Review of Audiology Services was carried out by the HSE, to examine the services provided to children and adults nationwide, and to formulate a national plan for the services. The report of the National Audiology Review Group, published by the HSE in 2011, provides the blueprint for the planning, development and delivery of HSE audiology services, from new-born screening to assessment and management of adults and children with hearing problems, including cochlear implantation. Two of the main recommendations in the report include the national rollout of a universal new-born hearing screening programme and the establishment of a bone anchored hearing aid programme. The report also included a recommendation that continued ring-fenced financial support be provided for the cochlear implant programme but at levels which allow for simultaneous bilateral implantation for children. A key development has been the creation of the post of National Clinical Lead for Audiology. This post has recently been filled by a clinician who has worked extensively on cochlear implant programmes, including the Irish cochlear implant programme in Beaumont. The newly appointed lead is very familiar with the complexities of this area and will be taking a key role with the development of the potential introduction of a bilateral simultaneous/sequential cochlear implant programme.

While no dedicated programme for simultaneous or sequential implantation is being carried out in Ireland at this time, some bilateral implantation has already occurred for patients, mainly very young children with certain medical conditions such as a history of meningitis or blindness. It is estimated that there are approximately 200 children in Ireland today who may be suitable for a second implant.

The HSE is working closely with Beaumont Hospital to progress plans for both simultaneous and sequential bilateral implantation. I understand that Beaumont Hospital, HSE Management and the HSE’s Audiology Clinical Care Programme have met recently to discuss a joint process to identify the options for developing and resourcing a programme of simultaneous and sequential cochlear implantation. An important element of this will be the development of clear clinical criteria to prioritise clients for assessment and follow on implantation. Each child requires to be assessed to determine if they are suitable for a bilateral implant, and the provision of information about the advantages and potential disadvantages of bilateral implantation is required in order to facilitate an informed decision as to whether to proceed. Not all suitable patients proceed with the second implant when apprised of all the issues involved. I understand that the HSE will be arranging an information day for all parents/caregivers and children who have had, or about to have a single cochlear implant. This will provide a balance of information regarding the potential benefits that bilateral cochlear implantation may afford some children and the assessment programme that will be required to assess each child individually.

The development of the service will require additional resources for Beaumont and these plans will be progressed through the HSE 2014 Estimates process.

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