David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

137. To ask the Minister for Health the status of the independent review into the radiation therapy profession following agreement at the Workplace Relations Commission last year between an organisation (details supplied) the HSE and the Department of Health; the timeline for completion of this review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52300/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

An independent radiation therapist review has been agreed between the HSE, Department of Health and SIPTU, under the auspices of the WRC. 

This strategic review of Radiation Therapy will support the objectives of the National Cancer Strategy 2017-2026 and help address the increasing and more complex demand for radiation oncology. Cancer cases are increasing in line with our ageing and growing population, and the NCCP estimates that up to 60% of patients will require radiation oncology for primary treatment and palliative care in coming years.

Radiation Therapists are highly skilled professionals regulated by CORU. The Review will align with the National Cancer Strategy, taking account of the increasing demand for radiation oncology, the advances in technology, increased specialisation and more targeted treatment. The review will consider issues such as organisation structure, career development in line with Health and Social Care Professional Frameworks, strategic workforce planning and recruitment and retention strategies.

A Chair for the Review has been identified and agreed between the parties with an initial meeting scheduled for early November.  The timeline for the review will be agreed in conjunction with the Chair.

All outcomes of the review will be given due consideration by the Department of Health.  Implementation of any recommendations from the review are subject to approval from the Departments of Health and Public Expenditure and Reform.