Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
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430. To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide more details specifically with respect to the future of gynaecology services which will be offered by a hospital as part of proposals as outlined in correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23374/16]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Creating a Better Future Together - the National Maternity Strategy - was published in January 2016 and sets out the vision for the future of Ireland’s maternity services. The Strategy recommends that services should be woman centred, and provide integrated, team based care. The strategy aims to provide increased choice to women whilst ensuring that services are safe. It proposes a new model of integrated care that consists of three care pathways – supported, assisted and specialised, meaning every woman will be able to access the right level of care, from the right professional, at the right time and in the right place.

With regard to the future of ante-natal and gynaecology services at Dungloe Community Hospital, I understand that the Saolta University Healthcare Group proposes to develop a midwifery led clinic in Dungloe. Similar clinics are operating successfully in Gort, Athenry and Oughterard in Co. Galway. I welcome the move to provide such services as the development of a community midwifery service is a key objective of the National Maternity Strategy.

I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly with any further specific information, that might be available, in relation to the development of services in Dungloe.