Funding has been sanctioned to extend the opening hours of the Medical Assessment Unit in Nenagh.
At present the facility operates from 8am to 8pm – the new hours will see it run to midnight each day.
The service model for the initiative and its funding has been given the go ahead by the HSE Chief Executive.
North Tipp TD Michael Lowry says an additional 30 full time staff are needed to run the unit.
North Tipp TD Michael Lowry says an additional 30 full time staff are needed to run the unit.
“Additional multi-disciplinary staff is approved with funding. It incorporates new posts for Consultant Radiologists, Registrars, Radiographers, Medical Scientists, Staff Nurses and Healthcare Assistants.
“The cost for these additional human resources is an additional €2.874 million per year.”
Deputy Lowry says having received this sanction for funding the HSE is now in a position to speak with unions to agree an acceptable rostering schedule for the existing workforce and new recruits.
The Thurles TD says the extended hours will be a huge help for patients referred by their GPs or out of hours services and injury units.
“The unit will treat a variety of medical complaints. Those attending will be reviewed by a senior clinician and may require blood tests, x-rays, scans or further diagnostic treatment.
“Instead of going directly to UHL and languishing in waiting rooms or trolleys patients from North Tipperary can be medically assessed at Nenagh Hospital and only referred to UHL if deemed medically necessary.”
