SDLP Health Spokesperon and Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan has said that it is unacceptable that almost 700 children have missed out on vital assessments by Health Visitors in Derry and across the Western Health and Social Care Trust.He said: “It is unacceptable that almost 700 Children have missed out on vital assessments by Health Visitors at 1 and 2 years of age in Derry and across the WHSCT.
“These reviews are vital to ensure key developmental milestones are hit and any potential health issues can be flagged to ensure early intervention.
“As a father of two young children, I am very aware of the need for reassurance from Health Visitors that your young child is healthy and happy.
“Whilst the WHSCT have acknowledged the problem and are trying their best to ensure that the current backlog is being dealt with by holding weekend clinics, the staff shortages that are causing this problem must be addressed immediately.
“Unfortunately, we have experienced high levels of vacancies across the Health Trusts on all levels leading to significantly longer waiting lists.
“The Department of Health simply cannot continue to function without a Minister in place to implement much needed changes, many of which were highlighted in the Bengoa report.
“There is no more critical issue than the health of the people we represent.
“It must be the priority we unite behind,” added the Foyle MLA.
