Template created for shutting hospitals

HIQA and the HSE must be delighted. The template for closing any hospital is now clear. First, starve the institution of funds; ensure it can barely manage on a minimal budget; under no circumstances is any investment to be made; put in place a dysfunctional HSE management system.

As in the case of Ennis General Hospital, when clinical staff retire, put long-term locums in place; wait for clinical mishaps to occur, as they inevitably will. At this stage, call in HIQA. A report will be issued, stating the hospital is not fit for purpose. The reputation of the hospital is irreparably damaged. Management escapes scot-free. Job done.

Mallow General Hospital represented a greater challenge. Despite a dysfunctional management system, despite a minimal budget, despite lack of investment, complaints regarding clinical care were not forthcoming. Considerable ingenuity had to be shown. In an incredibly original move, the hospital was accused of looking after a sick patient. Hiqa could now move in. That the inquiry found no evidence of any clinical mishaps was a disappointment but did not, however, deflect HIQA from its purpose. Potential danger is nearly as good as the real thing. A report is issued doing terrible damage to the reputation of the hospital and of the hospital staff. Management escapes scot-free. Job done.