The lack of HSE Ophthalmology Services in South Tipperary is deeply concerning and a growing source of major frustration.
That’s the view of County Councillor John O’Heney who says its simply unacceptable that children and families are being left without essential eyecare services in the area.
It follows the retirement of a consultant ophthalmologist last year.
Councillor O’Heney says not having a HSE service means families are having to pay for private care.
“Its simply unacceptable that children and families are being left without essential eye care services in our area. One parent has stated that they had to pay over €400 recently for an eye test and glasses for their child having had to go with a private alternative option. This simply should not be happening – no family should have to shoulder these costs because of the HSE’s failure to fill a vital post in our area.”
He says this is adding to already lengthy waiting lists according to a local Councillor.
“Referrals now from Public Health Nurses conducting development checks are creating their own backlog which is only going to get worse. This is a crisis which cannot be ignored – early detection and treatment of vision problems are crucial for a child’s development and education. But the system is failing them in the last few months here in South Tipperary. In this day and age it is wrong that basic healthcare needs of our children are not being met.”
Councillor O’Heney claims the HSE has yet to advertise the post in South Tipperary.
“Currently it doesn’t seem to be advertised. A lot of parents have come to me with this issue and expressed major concerns that the post has not been filled.”
