Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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346. To ask the Minister for Health the steps that have been taken to improve waiting times for patients awaiting spinal surgery for scoliosis in the Saolta Healthcare Group; if additional equipment such as theatre tables is required or has been purchased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2961/16]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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It is acknowledged that issues of capacity and complexity adversely impact a small number of specialties, including spinal surgery for scoliosis. With specific reference to scoliosis, these include appropriate bed availability, access to diagnostics, purchase of specialist spinal equipment and access to theatre for significant periods of time.

I have been assured that the waiting list for spinal surgery for Scoliosis is a high priority for the Saolta Healthcare Group, and that Galway University Hospital is working to ensure that the necessary resources and arrangements are in place in order to address the needs of patients with scoliosis and that plans are in place for all those currently on the waiting list.

The Department of Health will continue to work with the HSE to ensure that the service needs and waiting times in this area will be addressed, having regard to the overall level of resources available to the HSE.

In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and my officials will follow the matter up.