Senator warns ‘chaotic’ oncology services to worsen

THE “chaotic” oncology services for cancer sufferers in the south east offered at Waterford Regional Hospital are set to get a lot worse before they improve, a local senator has warned.

There are serious problems with oncology services nationally but they are far more acute in the regions away from Dublin, Waterford-based senator, Brendan Kenneally, said.

“It is estimated that by 2015 there will be a 31% increase in the incidence of these cancers yet there is still no proper oncology ward at Waterford Regional Hospital.

“Facilities there are so basic and conditions so cramped that it was necessary to knock down a wall in the day room to provide additional space.

“It is still too small to accommodate beds so patients are getting chemotherapy while sitting on chairs. This would be regrettable in a country of modest means but given our unprecedented wealth, it is nothing less than shocking and a disgrace.

“If the new cancer strategy is implemented, it will mean the restricted chemotherapy and surgery being carried out in Kilkenny and Wexford at present will be transferred to Waterford.

“Waterford Regional Hospital is already in a chaotic state and this development cannot go ahead until the hospital has a proper day ward and oncology ward.

“If people are to be encouraged to come from Kilkenny and Wexford to Waterford, they must be reassured that they are going to a hospital where there are proper facilities. It is my understanding that the Government is at present breaching its guidelines in this area because patients on chemotherapy should be looked after in dedicated areas.

“Waterford Regional Hospital is awaiting design team approval to proceed with services in the region but, in the meantime, patients continue to suffer. The department has claimed that the delay is attributable to the HSE but the HSE claims the blame lies with the department.

“Patients are stuck in the middle of the wrangling and are suffering.

“There is nothing new in one agency blaming another, passing the buck and not being accountable but I often wonder if those who have the stated function of expediting a caring and effective health service realise that by their deficiencies they are causing hardship for real people, not just names on a list,” Senator Kenneally added.

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Sean Power, said the Government remains committed to making the full range of cancer services available and accessible to cancer patients throughout the country, in accordance with best international standards.

“Our commitment can be seen in the considerable investment made in cancer services since 1997. To continue this commitment into the future, the Tánaiste has allocated an additional €9 million in 2006 for oncology services nationwide. This will bring the additional cumulative investment since 1997 to approximately €900 million,” he said.

“The Department has asked the HSE to ensure that appropriate transport arrangements are put in place on a national basis for patients who are required to travel to obtain radiotherapy”, he added.