30 June 2023

Senator Conway calls for eye care review

Senator Martin Conway has called for a debate in the Seanad Éireann on eye care, waiting lists and investment in eye care.

In his speech, he highlighted that 80% of those who suffer sight loss do so unnecessarily due to a lack of engagement and early intervention. He said that Ireland has the expertise but not everybody has access. He also highlighted the long waiting times for people who require eye care.

Helen Kennedy, FODO Ireland's policy and public affairs officer, said: "We know that people are waiting too long to receive eye care in hospitals. The waiting list is 12% longer than it was at the same time last year. The 2023 waiting list action plan is falling short, and waiting lists are estimated to grow further across 2023.  

"FODO Ireland has called for more eye care services to be available under the medical card and greater use of local optical practices to support the HSE in reducing waiting lists. It isn't just about the HSE reducing its lists - it's about ensuring patients can access the services they need, when and where they need them. We welcome further debates and investment in primary eye care services."  

Read the full exchange in the Seanad Éireann