Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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509. To ask the Minister for Health the plans that can be put in place to assist persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4206/20]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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511. To ask the Minister for Health his plans regarding the appointment of much needed additional Parkinson’s nurse specialists in view of the fact there are only two such nurse specialists in the 25 counties outside Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4210/20]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 509 and 511 together.

The HSE Model of Care for Neurology was developed by the National Clinical Programme for Neurology in collaboration with consultants, nurses, health and social care professionals and patient support groups. It provides a framework for neurology services, including for Parkinson's Disease patients, using international best practice, and it sets out care provision using an integrated service approach. The model, which is fully aligned with the objectives of Slaintecare, proposes a hub and spoke approach, with services provided as close to home as possible but with access to specialist services where required.

The roles performed by Parkinson’s Disease Nurse Specialists include identifying patients' needs, coordinating their care, monitoring symptoms, helping with drug management and providing emotional and lifestyle support.

The particular query raised is a service matter and I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly as soon as possible.