Written answers

Tuesday, 22 March 2016

Department of Health

Neuro-Rehabilitation Services Provision

Photo of Róisín ShortallRóisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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416. To ask the Minister for Health if he is satisfied with the current standard of care for individuals suffering from stroke, brain injury and other neurological conditions; the progress made to date in developing occupational therapy services and neuro-rehabilitation services for persons with neurological injuries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5313/16]

Photo of Leo VaradkarLeo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Stroke, brain injury and neurological health services are provided across a range of settings, by different organisations and by many health professionals and carers. The Health Service Executive (HSE) provides for the health needs of those affected by stroke, brain injury and neurological conditions through a range of measures. The HSE Clinical Strategy and Programmes Directorate have a number of clinical programmes working in the area of neurology, including Neurology, Epilepsy, Stroke and Rehabilitation Medicine. The HSE also provides services for those with brain injury through Primary Care Teams with community based therapy services and personal social services, often funded through partner agencies in the non-statutory sector. In addition, the HSE provides substantial funding to a number of organisations such as Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, Headway, Enable Ireland, Epilepsy Ireland among others, to provide supports and services to people with a neurological condition.

In August 2015, an additional €15 million was announced for the redevelopment of the National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) in Dun Laoghaire. This allocation will enable the NRH and the HSE to proceed with a new 120 bed building on the Dun Laoghaire campus. The redeveloped facility will be purpose built to accommodate integrated therapy services, hydrotherapy and sports facilities.

I have also referred the question to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy in relation to standards of care and services provided by the HSE. If the Deputy has not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, she can contact my Private Office and they will follow the matter up with the HSE.

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