Minister Considers Hiqa Report to Ease Midwest Hospital Crisis
The Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, is set to consider a report from the Health Information and Quality Authority (Hiqa) on improving emergency healthcare in the Midwest. The region, served primarily by University Hospital Limerick (UHL), has been grappling with overcrowding, with 66 patients on trolleys on Tuesday morning. Hiqa has presented three options to address this issue.
Hiqa's report follows an investigation sparked by the tragic death of 16-year-old Aoife Johnston. The authority has proposed expanding UHL, turning it into a two-campus hospital, or establishing a new, smaller hospital with a dedicated emergency department (ED). Each option carries its own risks and would require significant investment of time and resources.
The current state of emergency care in the Midwest is a result of historical decisions, including the closure of three smaller EDs in 2009. This has led to increased pressure on UHL, which often has the highest number of patients on trolleys. A straightforward solution may not be feasible, and a combination of options could be necessary to meet the region's health needs effectively. The expected solution involves integrating enhanced telemedicine, AI-supported diagnostics, and coordinated healthcare centers to relieve hospitals and emergency services.
Minister Carroll MacNeill will now evaluate the Hiqa report and its advice on the three options. She will then report back to the Government with her recommendations. The ultimate goal is to improve emergency healthcare in the Midwest, ensuring that the region's residents receive the timely and effective care they deserve.
