Fears over ‘post code’ cancer services

A leading cancer doctor has warned that failure to progress two long-awaited radiation oncology centres in Cork and Galway would deprive patients in the south and west of services already available in Dublin.

Consultant radiation oncologist Dr Paul Kelly said it would be unforgivable if the units — promised for Cork University Hospital (CUH) and University Hospital Galway (UHG) — fell foul of Health Service Executive (HSE) cutbacks. The HSE is currently working on its 2014 service plan which will detail the cuts necessary to meet a spending reduction of €666m next year.

Concerns in relation to the future of the Cork and Galway cancer units surfaced amid reports that the HSE was looking at slashing its capital budget.