HSE to employ extra autism staff

THE Health Service Executive is to employ additional staff to deal with assessment and treatment for people in Cork and Kerry suffering from autism and cystic fibrosis and orthodontic problems.

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.