John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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95. To ask the Minister for Health the number of persons currently waiting for an occupational therapy assessment in each LHO area in CHO5; the number waiting for treatment in each LHO in CHO5; the number in each category who have been waiting over a year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37512/22]

Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail)
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The number of persons currently waiting for an Occupational Therapy Assessment within the CHO South-East Community Healthcare Region, is as follows;

Carlow / Kilkenny - 1,960 of which 1,035 have been waiting over a year

South Tipperary- 688 of which 215 have been waiting over a year

Waterford - 1,029 of which 213 have been waiting over a year

Wexford- 1,392 of which 674 have been waiting over a year

The South East Community Healthcare Region of the HSE advise that once a client receives an Occupational Therapy assessment, a treatment plan is progressed so there are no waiting lists for treatment In addition, Occupational Therapy Waiting Lists are continually monitored in the overall context of available resources and prioritisation criteria. Unfortunately, all services within the HSE are currently experiencing significant recruitment challenges due to shortages of Health and Social Care Professionals, including Occupational Therapists. This has, regrettably, led to significant waiting times for services. The HSE advise that it is reviewing all options to address the current level of vacancies as quickly as possible.