Call to halt non-crucial referrals for surgery

Surgery referrals for non life-threatening conditions such as cataracts, varicose veins, and tonsillitis could be significantly curtailed from next year because many of the patients involved do not need the treatment.

Independent watchdog the Health Information Quality Authority has made the recommendation as part of plans to ensure vital funds are spent on patients who need them most.

Under the HSE-requested proposal, which has been sent to Health Minister James Reilly and can be read in full at www.hiqa.ie, surgery referrals for some of Ireland’s most common conditions will be restricted, potentially as soon as next year.