Written answers

Thursday, 13 December 2018

Department of Health

Health Services Funding

Photo of Lisa ChambersLisa Chambers (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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126. To ask the Minister for Health the level of funding made available for the treatment and research of motor neurone disease; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52555/18]

Photo of Finian McGrathFinian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities. 

As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

Photo of Lisa ChambersLisa Chambers (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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127. To ask the Minister for Health the level of funding made available for the treatment and research for neurological services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52556/18]

Photo of Lisa ChambersLisa Chambers (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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128. To ask the Minister for Health the number of patients here with a neurological disorder; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52557/18]

Photo of Lisa ChambersLisa Chambers (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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129. To ask the Minister for Health the steps he is taking to ensure the best possible care for patients with a neurological disorder; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52558/18]

Photo of Finian McGrathFinian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 127 to 129, inclusive, together.

The National Neuro-Rehabilitation Strategy, published in 2011, made a number of recommendations in respect of services for people with rehabilitation needs, including clinical, therapeutic, social, vocational and community supports. Since then the HSE established a Rehabilitation Medicine Programme which aims to ensure the optimal care pathway for different clinical needs.

This Programme provides a national, strategic, and coordinated approach to a wide range of clinical services and includes the standardisation of access to and delivery of high quality, safe and efficient hospital services nationally as well as better linkages with primary care services. The scope of the Programme covers the whole of the patient journey from self-management and prevention through to primary, secondary and tertiary care.

The Model of Care for Neurology was launched by the HSE in late 2016. This was developed by the HSE’s National Clinical Programme for Neurology in collaboration with consultants, nurses, health and social care professionals and patient support groups. It aims to address the need for strategic development of neurology services in the provision of better care for these patients.

In 2018 a number of significant investments were made for the diagnosis and treatment of a number of neurology related conditions. This year, funding has been allocated by the HSE to commence development of peri- and post-operative services to support patients receiving Deep Brain Stimulation. Also, additional funding has been allocated to further develop the national narcolepsy services, in particular the transition of adolescents from Children's University Hospital to St. James's Hospital.

Other improvements across neurology services include the development of nurse led clinics, condition specific outpatient clinics and the development of links across specialties including stroke, old age medicine and genetics.

The Government is committed to providing services and supports for all people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in assessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government and is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

I have also asked the HSE to reply to you directly.

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