Emergency Department Review for Limerick Faces Delay, Completion Expected in September 2025
The completion of a vital review examining emergency healthcare services in Limerick, Clare, and north Tipperary, originally slated for May, has been pushed back to September 2025, sparking worries about the region’s readiness for the surge in illnesses typically seen during the winter months.The delay is attributed to the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) awaiting crucial data from the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) [1].
HIQA Review Delayed Amidst Overcrowding Concerns
The HIQA review aims to advise the Health Minister on the necessity of establishing a second emergency department (ED) to alleviate pressure on University Hospital limerick (UHL), which serves a population exceeding 400,000. The delay has fueled local frustration, especially given the persistent overcrowding issues at UHL. Recent data revealed that 15 individuals endured waits exceeding 24 hours on trolleys for a hospital bed at UHL.
Did You Know? University Hospital Limerick is the only ED serving over 400,000 people in the region.
According to the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, 102 patients were without beds at UHL on a recent friday. While the Health Service Executive (HSE) uses different counting methods, their data still indicated 59 patients without beds. The situation is further strained as four individuals were on trolleys in Ennis Hospital, which lacks an ED.
Minister Awaits Critical ESRI Findings
Health Minister jennifer Carroll MacNeill emphasized the ESRI findings as “critical” to the HIQA review. The ESRI is conducting an analysis of emergency care demand up to 2030 by region,which will inform HIQA’s recommendations. MacNeill has pledged that the final report will be published, ensuring clarity in the decision-making process.
The review was initiated following public outcry over tragic incidents in the overcrowded ED, including the deaths of Aoife johnston (16) in December 2022, Martin Abbott (65) in 2019, and Eve Cleary (21) also in 2019.These events underscored the urgent need for improvements in emergency care services in the region.
Efforts to expand Capacity at University Hospital Limerick
despite the delays, efforts are underway to expand capacity at UHL. A new 96-bed block is expected to be fully operational by September 2025.Ian Carter, CEO for Mid West Acute and Older People Services, stated that recruitment is on track, with campaigns running both locally and internationally. The ED also provides a 24-hour crisis liaison service run by the Mid West Mental Health Services, which assisted 2,525 patients last year.
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HIQA maintains that despite the delay,the review is progressing well. They have conducted inspections of UHL and its sister hospitals and held a public consultation that garnered 1,121 submissions. HIQA is scheduled to appear before the Oireachtas health committee on Wednesday.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| December 2022 | Death of Aoife Johnston highlights ED overcrowding issues. |
| May 2024 | Minister for Health requests HIQA review of emergency care. |
| May 2025 | Original deadline for HIQA review passes. |
| September 2025 (Expected) | HIQA final report completion date. |
What are your thoughts on the delay of the HIQA report? How do you think this will impact healthcare in the Midwest?
The Ongoing Challenge of emergency Care in the Midwest
The situation in Limerick reflects broader challenges facing emergency departments across Ireland, including overcrowding, staffing shortages, and increasing demand due to an aging population. Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach, including increased investment in primary care, improved hospital infrastructure, and innovative models of care delivery. The HIQA review represents a critical step towards identifying solutions and ensuring that residents of the Midwest have access to timely and appropriate emergency care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Department Overcrowding
This section provides answers to common questions about emergency department overcrowding and its impact on patient care.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns.
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