Call for open debate on hospital downgrade

The possible downgrading of the South Infirmary/Victoria Hospital, which would be a consequence of the relocation of some of its services, needs to be looked at very carefully by the people of Cork and Munster.

Over the years the breastcare service has built up a huge level of expertise dealing with patients from pre-diagnosis to eventual outcome.

This service has always been caring and responsive to patients.

In terms of numbers of patients, the unit is the largest outside Dublin and the second largest in the country.

A new consultant was appointed to the service recently and the new BreastCheck unit has just been opened next door to the hospital.

The director of cancer strategy, Prof Tom Keane, wants centres of excellence. He already has one.

Why does he wish to move the service to Cork University Hospital — an already overcrowded site which has problems coping with its current workload?

What are the political and medical forces that have influenced the decision? If the current problems in the health service show us anything it is that when a facility is overloaded its ability to deliver a caring service is compromised.

What are the implications for the other major services that are based in the South Infirmary/Victoria?

We need open debate — not a stealth approach — on this vital issue.

Dr Larrie Martin

Crosshaven

Co Cork