Action on gynae waiting lists in Cork welcomed

A number of politicians have welcomed what appears to be a breakthrough in finding a solution to tackling excessive gynaecological waiting lists at Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUMH).

Health Minister Simon Harris visited the hospital on Thursday to hear from consultants why it is that more than 4,200 women are awaiting outpatient appointments, with more than 900 waiting in excess of 18 months.

While short-term initiatives such as use of the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) and the HSE’s waiting list plan for 2017 will be used to reduce the waiting times, Mr Harris has promised to meet again with consultants in four to six weeks to flesh out the details for a more comprehensive solution.