Representatives from the Neurological Alliance of Ireland presented to the Oireachtas Committee on Health on May 15th, to provide an update on the implementation of key healthcare strategies for neurological conditions.
NAI outlined that while there has been significant investment over the past three years to implement national strategies for neurology and neurorehabilitation, this legacy of progress is at serious risk of being undermined by the ongoing recruitment moratorium and other delays.
NAI also highlighted that much remains to be done to deliver on the Programme for Government commitment to implement the neurorehabilitation strategy, investment is needed in long term neurorehabilitation services in the community and in community neurorehabilitation teams while the organisation is calling for an action plan to tackle the shortage of inpatient specialist rehabilitation beds.
NAI outlined their call for funding in this year’s Budget to begin to tackle regional inequity in access to neurology services, by investing in 5 Consultant Neurology posts to support hospitals in Portlaoise, Bantry, Wexford, Letterkenny and Mayo.
The full recording of the May 15th meeting can be seen at NAI Presentation to the Oireachtas Committee on Health
Media Coverage of the May 15th Meeting
Irish Independent: Lack of care ‘linked to rise in deaths in people with neurological conditions’ and patients are spending up to €300 on taxis to nearby counties for treatment.
