HSE confirm 'temporary' cuts to paediatric services in North-east

The Health Service Executive has confirmed a number of curtailments to paediatric services in the Louth - Meath hospital division.

The number of paediatric outpatient clinics is being reduced, while children with cancer will be treated at Our Lady's Children's Hospital in Crumlin instead of at Our Lady Of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda.

The paediatric assessment unit, which operates at the A&E department of Our Lady Of Lourdes, is being suspended and children will attend the regular adult emergency department.

Also the birth limit on premature babies usually transferred to the Rotunda in Dublin is being reduced from 32 down to 30 weeks.

The HSE is stressing the reductions, which are being attributed the rotation of Junior Doctor posts next week, are temporary.

The HSE said the Louth - Meath Hospital group has agreed to the reduction in services.