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.

NAI executive director Magdalen Rogers says while an outreach programme is currently in place permanent solutions are needed.

"The Neurological Alliance of Ireland, the national umbrella for neurological charities in Ireland, welcomes the steps that have been taken to ensure that neurological patients throughout West Cork and surrounding areas can continue to see a consultant neurologist in Bantry Hospital," she said.

"It led a campaign to have the neurology service in the hospital protected, following the retirement of the consultant providing the service in May this year. This is a vital service for patients who otherwise must make regular journeys to Cork University Hospital, a journey of more than 80km. 

"While it is positive that patients can continue to see a neurologist in Bantry Hospital, this is through a visiting service from Cork University Hospital. This service must be put on a sustainable footing through funding of a dedicated consultant neurologist post in this year’s budget to enable the neurology service in CUH to continue the service”.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) patient Ruth O’Brien from Glengarriff, is one of a number of patients who was facing regular trips to Cork University Hospital despite living just minutes away from her local hospital.

“We welcome that an outreach solution has been provided from CUH," Ms O'Brien said. "However, we hope this will be maintained into the future. It's critically important for the people of West Cork."