Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 May 2024
313. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the extent to which he intends to set up an emergency management team to deal with overcrowding and hospital emergency departments, with particular reference to ensuring that the highest possible standards prevail when dealing with the inflow of patients by facilitating their access to emergency treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20148/24]
View answerThe Urgent and Emergency Care (UEC) Operational Plan 2023 supports the delivery and management of UEC by establishing clear integrated operational actions and targets alongside approved surge measures to mitigate the risks associated with high UEC demand pressures.
An integrated system of governance and accountability supports the delivery of this plan by providing ongoing monitoring and oversight of UEC activities and performance.
The oversight and implementation of the UEC Plan is facilitated by a monthly cycle of Taskforce meetings and associated Ministerial meetings. These groups are comprised of senior representatives of the Department of Health and HSE. The Taskforce drives and oversees the implementation of the UEC Plan each year and ensures effective communication and information sharing across all aspects of the UEC plan implementation, throughout the Department of Health and HSE with all key stakeholders. The Taskforce reports directly to the Minister for Health on UEC performance and the status of UEC Operational Plan activities. This system of governance compliments service delivery within the HSE.
The 2023 UEC Operational Plan is the foundation for the 2024 UEC Operational plan, providing continuation and sustainability to the improvements achieved thus far.
