Violet-Anne Wynne (Clare, Independent)
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908. To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the tendering of haemodialysis services at a hospital (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39746/23]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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University of Limerick Hospitals Group (ULHG) has advised my Department that they are seeking to establish a contract with a suitably qualified renal provider for the provision of a Contracted Satellite Haemodialysis Unit service in Ennis. They envisage that this Unit would be similar to the satellite centre already in place on the Dock Road, Limerick.

The tender process for a Contracted Satellite Haemodialysis Unit service is progressing and the Group has met with a number of potential providers. The shortlisted companies will be invited to present their proposals in October 2023. As part of the contract, the successful company will provide the dialysis machines.

Governance of this Unit would be provided for by ULHG with a designated Consultant Nephrologist from the Renal Unit at University Hospital Limerick providing the overall clinical governance.

The development of the Unit in Ennis would allow patients to benefit from better quality of life by being able to avail of treatments closer to home. The development of this Unit would also help ease pressure on the Renal Department at University Hospital Limerick and on the satellite unit on the Dock Road, Limerick.

The tender specification document provides for four isolation rooms, a gowning area suitable for patients with blood-borne viral illnesses including Hepatitis B (in line with national guidelines), and that the Unit would facilitate 1:1 and 1:2 nursing.

It is envisaged that the facility would provide the following services:

• Consultant-directed medical care for chronic haemodialysis patients;
• Nurse-delivered / supervised haemodialysis delivery and care with regular consultant led reviews;
• Regular dietetic review and support;
• Other clinical supports as required, such as pharmacy services;
• Administrative support.