AQW 50572/22-27

Mr Nick Mathison
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 01/09/2026
Answered On Date: 06/10/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 49362/22-27, to detail any steps he will take to address the lack of data recorded in relation to the number of patients with functional neurological disorder.

Answer:

Precise numbers of patients with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) are not currently available due to limitations in existing coding and data collection arrangements.

My Department's Regional Review of Neurology Services recognised the need to improve the collection and use of neurology data. Specifically, the Review recommends that data capture within neurology should be broadened and developed across Health and Social Care Trusts, including enhanced recording and coding of diagnoses, interventions and clinical activity.

The Review also notes that improved data collection will support service planning, risk stratification and performance monitoring, and highlights the opportunities presented by the implementation of Encompass to strengthen the quality and consistency of information available.

Work would therefore be taken forward through the forthcoming implementation arrangements associated with the Regional Review of Neurology Services to improve neurology data collection and reporting. As this work progresses, it will help provide a clearer understanding of demand for services, including for people living with FND.

My Department is now preparing to publish the Review’s consultation analysis report and progress the next steps for implementation as soon as possible, despite the significant budget challenges that face the Health and Social Care system. However, my officials will continue to consider opportunities arising from Encompass and related data improvement initiatives to enhance the recording of neurological conditions, including FND.