Neurology waiting list: No of patients waiting for first appointment doubles in past four years

Over 11,000 neurology patients here have been waiting more than a year to see a consultant for a first appointment, according to new government figures.

It means the number waiting for a first referral has more than doubled in the last four years.

The Department of Health released the statistics as part of a review of neurology services in Northern Ireland.

At the end of March this year, 11,249 patients, with serious symptoms had waited over twelve months.

Almost half of them- 5816, waited over two years.

Neurology issues affect the brain, spine and nervous system and include conditions like epilepsy and Parkinsons disease.

A diagnosis can be life-changing but conditions can be managed.

David Galloway from the MS Society says a prolonged wait for answers can take its toll on patients:

"People are waiting a long time.

"You're living every day with those symptoms and you're not getting any clarity about what's happening.

"A lot of people find that very challenging emotionally and it's not uncommon for people to become depressed or really upset and concerned about their emotional well being."

In a statement, the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Health Richard Pengelly said:

"Long term neurological conditions are common in Northern Ireland and it is clear that current neurology services are struggling to meet the needs of people with such conditions.

"It is therefore vital that this Review identifies the actions needed to improve neurology services.

"The publication of the interim report is a positive development and I am grateful for the ongoing commitment and dedication of colleagues in the neurology service as we seek to address the strategic challenges ahead.

"The Department is committed to ensuring that the voice of service users and carers is central to the review and we will be outlining opportunities for them to share their views with the Neurology Review Team in the coming weeks.

"I look forward to working with colleagues as we progress the design of neurology services in Northern Ireland to ensure an enhanced and strengthened service provision for future generations to come."