Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
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719. To ask the Minister for Health the waiting lists for outpatient and inpatient appointments in Cork University Hospital and Mercy University Hospital, Cork. [9483/20]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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In response to the Covid-19 pandemic the HSE had to take measures to defer all non-urgent elective scheduled care activity, including outpatient clinics. This was to ensure patient safety and that all appropriate resources were made available for Covid-19 related activity and time-critical essential work. This decision was in line with the advice issued by the World Health Organisation, and the National Action Plan published on 16 March. The trajectory of the disease means there is now an opportunity for increasing the provision of non-covid care including more routine care. It is envisaged that the private hospitals will play an important role in this regard.

My Department, the HSE and the National Treatment Purchase Fund are currently working together to estimate the impact of Covid 19 on Scheduled Care waiting lists, in order to be prepared to address any backlog or pent up demand. My Department continues to ensure that the resources available throughout our health system are best utilised at this unique and challenging time.

The data requested by the Deputy is outlined in the attached documents. This information is also available on the NTPF website at: https://www.ntpf.ie/home/nwld.htm