A LOCAL TD has described as “shocking” the lengthy wait for people on the Northside to see a psychologist.
Dublin Bay North TD Tommy Broughan (Lab) recently asked Minister for Health Simon Harris the number of persons seen by a psychologist in Dublin North city and county in the years 2014, 2015, 2016 and to date in 2017; the number of persons on the waiting list to see to a psychologist; the average waiting time; and the longest time a person has been waiting to see a psychologist.
The HSE told Deputy Broughan there are 1,023 on a waiting list to see a psychologist and the average waiting time is 33 weeks. It said the longest time a person has been waiting is 147 weeks.
The HSE said there were 756 persons seen by a psychologist in 2014, 969 in 2015, 1,059 in 2016 and to date in 2017, 377.
Deputy Broughan said that in an era where mental health is at the forefront of so many political conversations, to think that a person could be left waiting for almost three years to see a posychologist in North Dublin is absolutely shocking.
“Even to have an average waiting time of 33 weeks is ridiculous given that usually a person would need immediate mental health supports,” he said.
“I’m calling on the Minister to urgently examine this reply and to take immediate steps to remedy the issue.”
A spokeswoman for the HSE confirmed the figures to Northside People and said it is “very aware” of the deficits in psychology services.
“We are engaged with the HSE National Division to develop a proposal to incrementally develop Psychology Service provision,” she said.
“It is hoped that this will be included as part of the 2018 Estimates process.”