Lowry Criticises Lack Of Accurate Info Available On Local HSE Waiting Lists

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File photo of Michael Lowry
Michael Lowry, TD © Michaellowry.ie

Tipperary TD Michael Lowry is criticising the lack of accurate information available as to the number of children with intellectual, physical and/or sensory disabilities from county Tipperary currently on HSE Waiting Lists.

A HSE response includes Tipperary children in two Community Health organisations – one that includes north Tipperary and the other south Tipperary.

Information on North Tipperary is included in CHO 3 and South Tipperary is included in CHO 5. CHO 3 incorporates Clare, Limerick and North Tipperary/East Limerick, while CHO 5 includes South Tipperary, Carlow/Kilkenny, Waterford and Wexford.

At the end of May, some 340 children were still awaiting initial contact regarding a consultation for more than 12 months in the CHO 3 region. Meanwhile, at the end of April, there were no Under 18s awaiting initial contact for more than 12 months in the CHO 5 region.  In April 1,001 children had been waiting 6 – 12 months for initial contact, while 250 were waiting for this duration in CHO 3.

Figures from June onwards are not yet available and the HSE states that  there are gaps in data returns for some of the country’s 9 CHO areas, but do not specify which ones.

Deputy Lowry committed to seek further resources in the upcoming budget to support those aged under 18 with disabilities as he concluded that timely intervention and support are key  to enable children with disabilities  to progress and develop.