Bantry Hospital 'needs dedicated neurology service'

Neurological Alliance of Ireland is calling for the introduction of five consultant neurology posts in healthcare settings, including Bantry Hospital.

Bantry General Hospital in Co Cork. Picture: Denis Minihane.

Calls are being made for a dedicated neurology service at Bantry Hospital as part of a strategy aimed at tackling gruelling commutes for patients in rural areas.

It comes following a pre-budget submission by the Neurological Alliance of Ireland which highlights the need for funding to complete the rollout of dedicated neurorehabilitation teams in community hospitals across the country. The NAI is calling for the introduction of five consultant neurology posts in healthcare settings, including Bantry Hospital. Other locations cited in the submission include Letterkenny, Wexford, Mayo and Portlaoise. The Alliance says it is now seeking clarity from the HSE on the issue.