Cystic fibrosis numbers to hit twice the guideline at CUH

THE number of adult cystic fibrosis patients treated at Cork University Hospital is set to be double the official guidelines within 18 months, it has emerged.

Detailing the situation at the latest HSE south regional health forum, respiratory consultant at CUH Dr Barry Plant warned that despite the 2005 Pollock Report stating CUH should treat up to 70 adults with the life-threatening condition, the facility is seeing 110 patients. By 2010, this figure is expected to reach 150 patients.

Explaining that the situation was risking cystic fibrosis patients potentially contracting illnesses from each other, putting their treatment in jeopardy, Dr Plant said management should actively consider designating specific isolation units when the hospital’s cardiac unit is moved in 2010.