Cork families are facing anxious waits as twenty children suspected of having scoliosis are currently waiting more than four months for their first appointment with an orthopaedic specialist at the South Infirmary-Victoria University Hospital. The delays highlight ongoing challenges in accessing timely scoliosis care in Ireland, and raise concerns about transparency in the reporting of waiting lists. Scoliosis, a condition where the spine develops an abnormal curve, often twisting into an “S” or “C” shape, can have a significant impact on a child’s posture and, in some cases, require intervention.
While most children with scoliosis do not require treatment, early diagnosis is crucial for those who do, as a growing body responds more effectively to intervention. The HSE has stated that patients requiring surgical intervention are referred to Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) in Dublin. Though, obtaining specific figures regarding the number of Cork-based children awaiting scoliosis surgery at CHI has proven difficult, with the hospital citing patient confidentiality. This comes after previously releasing such data.
The issue came to light following parliamentary questions from Sinn Féin TD Thomas Gould, who sought information on waiting times for children in his constituency. In response to a recent query, CHI stated it was “unable to release the information … due to patient confidentiality.” This contrasts with a response provided at the end of 2023, when then-Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly revealed that 11 children from Cork were awaiting scoliosis surgery as of November 2023 – five for less than six months and six for over six months.
CHI maintains that the information released in 2023 did not constitute a breach of confidentiality, describing it as “aggregated data only and did not identify any individual patient or family.” However, Deputy Gould has expressed frustration with the current lack of transparency. “This proves absolutely shocking that 20 children are waiting for a hospital appointment with suspected scoliosis,” he told The Echo. “Commitments were given and these have never been met. At the same time, it would appear a motto of ‘circle the wagons’ has meant CHI no longer provides information to the public on these cases.”
Scoliosis Treatment and Waiting Times in Ireland
Scoliosis can occur at a wide range of ages, but is most commonly diagnosed in adolescents. Children’s Health Ireland provides a range of scoliosis services, including outpatient clinics and spinal surgery. Idiopathic scoliosis, where there is no known cause, is the most common type. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the curve and can include observation, bracing, or surgery.
The current situation in Cork reflects broader concerns about waiting times for scoliosis treatment across Ireland. In February 2026, the HSE announced it is set to review the cases of 62 children who had spinal care at Children’s Health Ireland following concerns that some surgeries did not lead to the expected outcome. This review, initiated in 2023, is not expected to be completed until the end of the year.
CHI has stated that a scoliosis operational plan is in place and that efforts are underway to improve access times for all children with scoliosis. Resources are available to support families navigating a scoliosis diagnosis, including guides on non-operative treatments and spinal surgery, accessible through the CHI Scoliosis Information Hub.
Concerns Over Data Transparency
The shift in CHI’s approach to releasing data on waiting lists has raised questions about accountability and public access to information. Deputy Gould’s comments suggest a perception that the hospital is becoming less forthcoming with details regarding patient care. The discrepancy between the information provided by Minister Donnelly in 2023 and the current stance of CHI has further fueled these concerns.
The HSE is currently following up with the 62 children whose cases are under review, and a wider look-back at the work of the surgeon involved is underway, covering the period from 2016 to 2023. Dr. Colm Henry, HSE chief clinical officer, has stated that there is no immediate risk to patients, but the ongoing review underscores the require for rigorous oversight and quality assurance in pediatric spinal care.
As the review continues and the HSE works to address the backlog of cases, families in Cork and across Ireland will be hoping for improved access to timely and effective scoliosis treatment. The focus remains on ensuring that all children receive the care they need, when they need it, and that information regarding waiting times and treatment outcomes is readily available to the public.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about health topics and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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