Seanad debates

Wednesday, 22 October 2003

National Task Force on Medical Staffing: Statements.

 

The report seems to suggest that an enhanced ambulance service will alleviate some of the problems of emergency cases having to travel long distances for services. The Government must envisage an upgrade of ambulance services, which is recommended. However, it is already a source of criticism because of delays. Then there is the condition of the secondary roads system in the west. I do not know how many people here have travelled on the Boyle to Galway or Roscommon to Galway routes. It is a pretty hazardous trip of approximately 78 miles, taking up to two hours at the best of times. Key message 8 under section 1.8 on page 18 states: "The organisation and staffing of acute hospitals must be restructured to allow for the safe provision of emergency and elective care." On page 45, it mentions "the ability of the hospital to provide safe, quality, accessible patient care, taking account of geographic location within the region". I do not believe that our region fits that description and that undermines the report. Page 65 states: "Each network of hospitals should provide a service which is, as much as possible, located close to patients' homes." While the report has various kinds of aspirational padding about ideas for local hospitals, ultimately, the proposals will once again be seen as downgrading and will be resisted strenuously.

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