Michael McCarthy (Cork South West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

To ask the Minister for Health the position regarding the new emergency monitoring units for epilepsy at Cork University Hospital and at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9; when these units will be open and be operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17995/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I would like to advise the Deputy that the majority of patients with epilepsy do not require epilepsy monitoring and have their care needs met through other services, including the recently established Rapid Access Clinics, one of which is located in Beaumont Hospital.

Nevertheless, the development of these Units is a priority for the National Clinical Care Programme for Epilepsy. When they are open they will increase pre-surgical evaluation capacity. The staffing required for these units – which will deliver care on a 24/7 basis – to open safely has been identified and recruitment is ongoing.

In Beaumont, the 2 neurophysiology technicians are in post and the consultant post is due to commence in the summer months. The contracts for nursing personnel – a key element to enable phased opening – have been issued. An opening date will be finalised when this recruitment has been completed.

In relation to CUH, the Unit there remains on schedule for opening in the third quarter of this year. Approval to recruit the seven posts required – 5 nurses and 2 neurophysiology technicians – has been received and the recruitment process has commenced.