IPA welcome improvements in A&E departments

The Irish Patients Association has welcomed a reduction in the numbers awaiting admission to hospitals from Accident and Emergency departments.

The Health Service Executive is reporting a 14% drop nationally, and a 20% fall in Dublin.

Improved A&E facilities are on the way for at St Vincent's, St James' and the Mater hospitals.

Earlier today the Irish Nurse’s Organisation and Irish Medical Organisation were both “greatly sceptical” of the changes saying it will take years before any major improvements are seen.

But IPA Spokesperson Steve McMahon says if the HSE’s proposed changes really are implemented it will be good news for hospitals throughout Ireland.

He said that the IPA has to trust the HSE that the figures for the reductions given are valid and true.