This article is from page 16 of the 2012-05-01 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 16 JPG
THE HSE spent more than half a million euro on wheelchairs for Clare, Limerick and North Tipperary last year.
It was unable to say how much it spent on other aids such as walking frames and crutches last year stating they were included in “a generic cost centre of either beds and hoist or medical surgical equipment”.
In 2008 the HSE spent € 1,121,193 on aids and appliances in Clare.
However the cost of wheelchairs in the former mid-west area was recorded at € 511,260.84 in 2011 and € 491,231.07 in 2010.
Green Party councillor Brian Meaney raised concerns that aids such as crutches and wheelchairs were not being recycled by the HSE.
He asked if it was still the policy of the HSE not to return such mobility aids.
In its reply the HSE said it has recently signed a contract with the company Homecare Medical.
“This contract award supports and supplements existing recycling services and will ensure high standards in infection control and appliance service and maintenance. This contract will also support the movement of aid and appliances to ensure equity of service for clients in the community,” said Philip Browne from the HSE’s Procurement Department.
“It will increase current recycling levels and reduce the need for purchase of new appliances,” he said.
It is still unclear what equipment and aids will be recycled and how much will be saved each year under the project.