Written answers

Tuesday, 12 July 2016

Department of Health

Hospital Waiting Lists

Photo of Dara CallearyDara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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102. To ask the Minister for Health the reason for the substantial increase between December 2015 and May 2016 in the number of outpatients waiting more than a year for a consultation in Mayo University Hospital [20986/16]

Photo of Simon HarrisSimon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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A key challenge for our health system is ensuring timely access to health services. This Government recognises that a sustained commitment to improving waiting times is required, with a particular focus on those waiting longest.

While waiting list numbers nationally have increased in the first half of the year, this must be seen in the context of increased demand for care in our health system. There has been a 4% increase in inpatient and day-case activity in acute hospitals and an almost 6% increase in attendances at EDs in comparison with last year. The key issue for patients is how long they wait. Approximately 60% of patients wait less than 6 months for a required outpatient appointment or inpatient/day-case procedures.

Regarding 2016, my Department is currently engaging with the NTPF and the HSE in finalising a dedicated waiting list initiative focussed on endoscopy. In addition, my Department has asked the HSE to implement an action plan addressing waiting times with hospitals and Hospital Groups. This will focus on improving chronological scheduling, clinical and administrative validation of lists and optimising existing capacity.

The Programme for a Partnership Government commits to €15m funding for the NTPF in 2017 to address waiting lists for those waiting longest, as part of a continued investment of €50m per year to reduce waiting times. My Department is currently engaging with the NTPF and the HSE to deliver on the Programme's waiting list commitments.

In relation to waiting lists at Mayo University Hospital, 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.

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