Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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382. To ask the Minister for Health if he has satisfied himself on the number of elective gynaecological procedures being carried out on a daily basis in the Cork University Maternity Hospital; if productivity could be increased; the actions that have been taken to do this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40865/16]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I fully recognise the need to ensure that patients have timely access to health services. My Department works closely with the HSE, and the NTPF, to implement measures to reduce waiting times. At my request, the HSE developed an action plan to reduce, by year end, the number of patients waiting 18 months or more for an inpatient/day case procedure.

I am aware of the high demand for gynaecology services at Cork University Hospital. The South/South West Hospital Group has confirmed their commitment to maternity and gynaecology services, as demonstrated by the establishment of a group clinical directorate for these services. In addition, the HSE has advised that Cork University Hospital is undertaking a number of initiatives to address both inpatient and outpatient waiting times for gynaecology services. With regard to elective procedures, my Department has been assured that, in order to address the current waiting times, the hospital will maximise the use of of existing theatre and other gynaecology resources within the hospital, including rostering, as well as those in other hospitals across the South/South West Hospital Group.

In relation to this particular query, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.