Support group claims vulnerable patients at risk in mixed-gender wards

HSE cutbacks are forcing hospitals to treat public patients in mixed-gender wards — a situation support groups claim is an affront to their dignity.

Senior officials confirmed the situation, which is used to free-up other beds and cut down on costs, has taken place in the Cork and Kerry region this year.

Responding to concerns raised by local politicians at the latest HSE South regional health forum meeting, Kerry area manager Michael Fitzgerald admitted mixed wards are in place in set circumstances.