John Lahart (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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336. To ask the Minister for Health if he will consider developing a national strategy for those suffering from colitis and Crohn's disease, with particular focus on equitable access to inflammatory bowel disease nurses, self care and patient empowerment and sustainable funding models; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38549/16]

Marcella Corcoran Kennedy (Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Crohn's Disease is an Inflammatory Bowel Disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal system. The diagnosis of Crohn's Disease often requires a range of tests including endoscopy, radiology and blood tests relating to anaemia and inflammation. Management of the condition may require antibiotics and medication to reduce inflammation.

The diagnosis and management of Crohn's Disease takes place in an acute hospital setting with follow up in primary care as appropriate. These services are available in hospitals and primary care settings.

While the development of plans for a specific programme for Crohn's Diseases is not envisaged, the Health Service Executive is leading a large scale work-programme to develop a system of integrated care within Ireland’s health and social care services. The Integrated Care Programmes, which includes a programme for the Prevention and Management of Chronic Disease, place clinical leadership at the centre of these reform measures in order to improve patient experiences and outcomes and to overcome the current fragmentation in the way health and social care is currently delivered.