Mayo cataract bus set for maiden Belfast voyage next month
The average waiting time for cataract surgery in Ireland is almost two-and-a-half years, with some people having to wait up to five years.
Patients in Mayo are referred to either Sligo or Galway University Hospitals for a consultation in relation to cataracts, where 1,800 people are on waiting lists.
“The reality is, many people across Mayo are waiting years for a 15-minute cataract surgery while their sight deteriorates,” said Paul Lawless of Aontú, who is organising a group to attend a private hospital in Belfast to get their problems seen to.
Mayo’s first cataract bus to the north is set to travel next month.
Mr. Lawless, who ran as a candidate in the local elections earlier this year, explained the rationale behind his move: “During my campaign I knocked on hundreds of doors and met thousands of people. I heard first-hand the issues that people up and down this county are facing, but none more heart-wrenching than those who are waiting for cataract surgery while their eyesight continues to deteriorate.
“One man, Pat, a bachelor living on his own, is waiting over two years for cataract surgery. He explained that his eyesight is failing by the week, and he doesn’t know will he be able to see when he is finally called to Galway for his cataract surgery. We exchanged numbers as I vowed to do my utmost to help. As I wrote my contact details in large writing for Pat, he was unable to read it.
“Despite the requirement for early intervention, Pat, who is at risk of going blind as a result of the condition, remains on the waiting list after two years, with no date imminent for this treatment.
“Many people in Mayo, like Pat, are tired of waiting and are very willing to travel to Belfast to undergo the short life-changing procedure under the HSE Cross Border Directive.
“In light of this visit, and many other such visits, I set about organising a group of people to travel to Belfast for cataract surgery. The patients will travel to Belfast and attend a private hospital. This is part of the Cross Border Directive. The sheme is administered by the HSE, which reimburses the cost of the treatment following its payment by the patient.”
Mr. Lawless said it's with thanks to the Cross Border Directive that thousands of people have the gift of sight.
“Junior Health Minister Jim Daly himself has previously encouraged people on waiting lists to use the EU scheme,” he added. “If you are waiting for cataract surgery and are tired of waiting, please feel free to get in touch and book your place on our Mayo cataract bus.”
The first bus from Mayo will take to the road in early November. It will be filled on a first come first served basis. For a chance to get a seat on the bus, contact Paul Lawless on (086) 0865117 or 1paullawless@gmail.com.