Written answers
Wednesday, 27 September 2023
Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth
Disabilities Assessments
Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
125. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he can confirm whether the six planned regional assessment teams were fully established and operational by 1 August 2023 to address the significant waiting lists for assessments of needs; if, in the event that the teams were not fully operational by this date, he has considered allowing for the full reimbursement of private treatment expenses for children with disabilities and special education needs assessment from the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41878/23]
Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Department recognises the financial challenges for many families in the context of the delays in accessing assessments and therapies for their children.
It is for this reason that the HSE has been allocated over €11.5m in funding in Budget 2023 for the outsourcing of assessments. The ability of the HSE to outsource assessments can greatly assist the enhancement of Children’s Development Network Teams (CDNTs) by way of ensuring they have time and capacity to conduct therapy interventions rather than solely concentrating on assessments.
While the Hubs have been established in each CHO, Minister Rabbitte awaits details on effectiveness of the Hubs from the HSE. The Hubs are designed to provide a dedicated assessment function and seek to preserve the CDNT so that each team can continue to deliver therapy services.
The Minister is keen to establish the effectiveness of the newly established Regional Hubs and and is continuously engaged with senior leadership in the HSE on these and other issues.
The Minister is keeping an open mind on any option that may assist in benefitting families of children with complex needs and is actively working on measures to reduce waiting lists, ensuring that children and families are at the forefront of consideration of the HSE.
No comments