Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)

The necessary capacity is to be generated in a number of ways. For example, a medical assessment unit is to be established at Cavan to help manage the anticipated increase in activity. Beyond that measures are needed to ensure a more efficient use of available capacity and this has been highlighted in the national bed utilisation capacity report prepared for the HSE. The average length of stay for inpatients needs to be reduced in line with best practice. The discharge planning process also needs to be improved. Alternatives to acute inpatient care are required through the provision of additional packages of care in the Cavan-Monaghan community care area.

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