Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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592. To ask the Minister for Health the status of the implementation of the model of care report on lymphoedema and lipoedema treatment here; the details of the communications plan by the HSE for those affected by lymphoedema that cannot access treatment during the Covid-19 pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7862/20]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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The HSE advise that the implementation of the model of care for lymphoedema and lipoedema in the proof of concept sites is on hold due to redeployment of staff arising from the Covid-19 pandemic. The early detection proof of concept project at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital is tentatively planned to restart in June, depending on staff availability.

Guidelines for reopening lymphoedema services are being developed as part of the HSE recovery plan. This takes into consideration the use of telehealth when appropriate, while prioritising face to face contact for patients where necessary. The guidelines also support the restart of services at the proof of concept sites and the implementation of the wider roll-out of the model of care to ensure patient safety and reduced demand on acute services.

The HSE developed two patient information documents, in conjunction with Lymphoedema Ireland, to provide advice to those living with lymphoedema or lipoedema. These documents also included links to videos in relation to exercise programmes, simple lymphatic drainage and skin care.

The patient information documents were distributed to all HSE lymphoedema services and by members of Lymphoedema Ireland. The information is also available on the websites of the HSE and Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists.