Nurses at the region’s main hospital say they have ‘grave concerns’ about ongoing overcrowding at the facility.
85 people were waiting for a bed at University Hospital Limerick as of yesterday morning, which is among the highest number seen in Dooradoyle in the last number of years.
51 people were waiting in UHL’s emergency department yesterday, while 34 were in overflow areas of wards.
Nearly 1 in 4 patients on trolleys in the entire country on Monday were waiting in Limerick.
It’s led to concerns from general practitioners in this county that the ‘ripple effect’ of high demand for care is extending into their practices.
Ennis GP Dr Maire Finn says a total reform of the health service is now needed, and that the Government needs to put its money where its mouth is when it comes to Slaintecare.
The union representing nurses at UHL has accused both the Minister for Health and the HSE of ‘washing their hands’ of overcrowding issues in Dooradoyle.
The INMO has repeatedly called for what they describe as ‘ministerial intervention’ to tackle the issue, and a fast-tracked review into why extra beds haven’t eased numbers.
Tony Fitzpatrick, who’s the union’s Director of Industrial Relations, claims a more proactive approach needs to be taken in Limerick.
The UL Hospitals Group says ‘every effort is being made’ to reduce wait times and maximise patient flow in Dooradoyle.
The Group says the facility continues to follow its escalation plan, and is reminding the public to consider all care options before presenting to its emergency department.
