HSE to employ extra autism staff
Members of the HSE’s South Forum were informed yesterday that 13 additional staff are being appointed this year, who will be dedicated to work with children suffering from autism in the region.
HSE officials outlined the move in response to a call by Cllr Gerry Buttimer (FG) to ensure that resources are made available to prevent children waiting any longer than three months for a formal diagnosis.
Pat Healy, the HSE’s assistant director of primary, community and continuing care, admitted that while many children get assessment within three months, that it can, at times, take up to two years.
He said that it is hoped that the additional staff, who will work on assessment, diagnosis and intervention will cut waiting times.
Mr Healy said, however, that the recruitment of specific therapy staff can be difficult. He pointed out that at present the HSE nationally is conducting an international recruitment campaign.
“These, along staff recruited with current national recruitment campaigns, will be available for employment in autism services,” Mr Healy added. Meanwhile, HSE officials said they expected a medical consultant to start work at Cork University Hospital next August who will deal with adult cystic fibrosis cases. while interviews are taking place to provide a full-time, cystic fibrosis paediatric consultant at the hospital.
