Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

126. To ask the Minister for Health the waiting time for breast reconstruction by region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38612/14]

Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

128. To ask the Minister for Health the data collected and used for clinical research and future treatment planning purposes in respect of breast reconstruction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38614/14]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 126 and 128 together.

The Deputy's questions relate to service delivery matters and accordingly I have asked the HSE to respond directly to him.

Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

127. To ask the Minister for Health if breast reconstruction is considered an integral part of the breast care plan and not just a cosmetic procedure; if not the reason; his plans to introduce a breast reconstruction nurse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38613/14]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Breast cancer diagnostic and surgical services are carried out in the eight designated cancer centres (plus an outreach service in Letterkenny General Hospital).

Breast cancer patients may have immediate breast reconstruction carried out at the time of breast cancer surgery and for these patients there is no significant waiting time. For other patients, it may be necessary to carry out reconstructive surgery at a later time.

Symptomatic breast disease units in the designated cancer centres are staffed with multidisciplinary teams including breast care nurses. The introduction of a breast reconstruction nurse has not been identified at this time.