Hospitals to cancel ENT waiting lists

TWO Dublin hospitals are considering cancelling out patient referrals for ear, nose and throat (ENT) operations because of escalating surgical waiting lists, consultants have warned.

Consultant otolaryngologists at both Beaumont and Tallaght Hospitals have warned bed shortages and time pressures on operating theatres may force the closure of inpatient waiting lists.

Speaking to Medicine Weekly, Professor of Otolaryngology Michael Walsh, consultant at Beaumont, said the situation was now an ethical issue.