The HSE has confirmed that there will be a planned reduction in day surgery at Ennis Hospital this week.
Temporary theatre closures will be in place, because of difficulties in getting cover for key staff who are on leave.
This is not unusual – in previous years, the theatre in Ennis would have been closed all week but this week the facility will remain open for two half-days, and officials insist no further reductions are planned.
The following statement was issued on this matter by the HSE on Friday:
There is a planned reduction in day surgery at Ennis Hospital for the week commencing Monday July 27th.
Temporary theatre closures are a feature of this time of year owing to difficulties getting cover for key staff on holiday leave.
This is not due to any financial consideration. Whereas in previous years theatre in Ennis has been closed all week, it will remain open for two half days next week. No further reductions are planned beyond next week.
Day surgery procedures at Ennis Hospital increased by 37% between 2012 and 2014 and the plan is to further develop these services. Recruitment of consultant surgeons, consultant anaesthetists and theatre nurses continues across the UL Hospitals Group to ensure optimal use of the day surgery units in Ennis and Nenagh.
