Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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32. To ask the Minister for Health the measures he is taking to address the waiting lists for rehabilitation services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40053/13]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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I understand that the Deputy is referring to services at the National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) in Dun Laoghaire.

The NRH is working in partnership with the Health Service Executive (HSE) to deliver complex rehabilitation services in line with the National Policy and Strategy for the Provision of Neuro-Rehabilitation Services in Ireland 2011-2015. Services are developed on a regional basis in addition to the complex rehabilitation services currently being provided by the NRH. In this regard, the NRH and the HSE are working together to develop inpatient rehabilitation services and capacity in each region.

In addition, as part of the National Clinical Programme, the NRH is currently developing care bundles and clearly defined pathways for patients requiring inpatient services.

In May 2012, my colleagues the Tánaiste and the Minister for Health confirmed a significant capital development on the campus of the existing hospital. This development is a partnership between the HSE and the NRH Foundation and will see the existing facility at the NRH replaced by a new 120 bed ensuite facility including integrated therapy service and will represent an increase of 9% in bed capacity.

This facility will be purpose built specifically to accommodate the needs of those requiring complex specialist rehabilitation services complying with best international practice and the Strategy for the Control of Antimicrobial Resistance in Ireland (SARI).