§ Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on regional paediatric services. [107429]
§ Mr. BrowneA number of hospital services for children are provided on a regional basis because of the small case volume and the specialised staff, facilities or equipment required. Examples of regional paediatric services include paediatric cardiac surgery conducted at the Royal Victoria Hospital, paediatric intensive care, provided at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, paediatric neurosurgery services and paediatric pathology. Like other regional services, regional paediatric services are commissioned by the Regional Medical Services Consortium, a body comprising representation from each of the four Health and Social Services Boards.