A joint initiative, involving An Garda Síochána and the HSE Disability Services in Tipperary, has received international recognition in the 2024 Europol Excellence in Innovation Awards. The ‘Inside Out’ project in Tipperary Town aims to raise awareness of the impact of crime on vulnerable people, including people with disabilities and older persons.
The main thing I love about being a HCA is the connection I have with the patients,” according to Elaine Clifford, Health Care Assistant, St James’s Hospital, Dublin. In her post almost 28 years, Elaine has been outlining how much she enjoys the role and in the interaction with the patients: “It means so much just knowing that during a very difficult time in their lives that you have made a difference and hopefully made things a little bit easier for them during their stay.”
“Service users and staff at the Wicklow Community Unit are witnessing the benefits of integration between the acute hospital and community healthcare sectors first-hand,” according to Martina Queally, Regional Executive Officer, HSE Dublin and South East, speaking at the recent official opening of Wicklow Community Unit in Wicklow Town.
“Becoming a Public Health Nurse was always on my radar,” according to Gemma Donegan, Public Health Nurse (PHN) based in the Primary Care Centre in Shannon, Co Clare. Prior to becoming a Public Health Nurse Gemma worked for four years as a midwife and for three years as a general nurse. Along with nursing colleagues across the country, Gemma is outlining how much she contributes in the work she does and also explains the rewards she experiences.
“Change is already taking place across many areas we identified in the HSE’s Climate Action Plan,” according to Dr Philip Crowley, National Director of Wellbeing, Equality, Climate and Global Health, HSE, speaking at the first of its kind conference involving the HSE’s Climate Action Programme and the Climate and Health Alliance in recent days
“We recognise that Self-Advocacy is fundamental to ensuring that the voices of people with disabilities are central to the planning and development of our services,” according to Edel Quinn, Head of Disability Services, speaking in recent days as HSE Disability Services for Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim, Monaghan and Sligo, in partnership with Inclusion Ireland, hosted a “Hear My Voice” Self-Advocacy event in Ballybofey, Co Donegal.
“Every year, 10 to 15 people in Co Wexford are diagnosed with young onset dementia. We saw that there was a gap in services that they could access, as many such resources are focused on older people. The conversation that has borne fruit in the provision of the Activity Lodge included the voices of those with young onset dementia and identification by them of supports they required,” according to Sally Veale, a social worker with the HSE’s Memory Assessment Support Service, speaking as the new Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s Activity Lodge was officially opened in Enniscorthy, Co Wexford in recent weeks.
“Already, I feel much more alive and energetic, and I can’t wait to get back to my usual daily routines of driving, farming, and walking my dog,” according to Noel O'Brien from Tynagh, County Galway who recently became the first patient to undergo Avalus Ultra valve implant surgery led by Professor Alan Soo and his surgical team at University Hospital Galway.
“Without awareness raising there can be no recognition of abuse. That really is the first step,” according to Prof Eleanor Bantry White, addressing a recent gathering in Kilkenny marking National Safeguarding Day. Over 200 delegates attended the event organised by the HSE Safeguarding and Protection Team, Amber Women’s Refuge and the School of Applied Social Studies in University College Cork (UCC).
“During grief, there are often difficult moments, where the bereaved may feel overwhelmed, confused, distressed and alone. Often the bereaved don’t have an awareness of the supports that are available to them in their local community that would be an invaluable support to them during this sad, sensitive and difficult time,” according to Vivian Roche-Fahy, Bereavement Liaison Officer at Galway University Hospitals.
“I am privileged to work with excellent colleagues who always put the patient’s needs at the centre of everything they do,” according to Dr Aoife Fallon, Consultant Geriatrician and Clinical Lead, speaking as Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) celebrated four years of service at their Medical Gerontology Age-Related Unit at Tymon North.
“Respite care is such an important support to families who are caring for children with additional needs. HSE Disability Services were delighted to be allocated the additional funding required to progress the respite service that will be delivered at Rainbow Lodge,” according to Edel Quinn, Head of Service for Disability, HSE Community Services Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim, Monaghan, Sligo, speaking at the recent official opening of the facility.
“It is a privilege for us in healthcare professions to be able to help in whatever way we can, but the celebration tonight is an acknowledgment of the achievements of these incredible individuals who serve as role models to all of us,” according to Professor Tim O’Brien, Clinical Director of Medicine MCAN at Saolta Hospital Group.
“We felt there had to be a quicker and easier way to communicate, so now, by using the Smart CP (Chronic Pancreatitis) app, patients can report their symptoms daily,” according to Marie Egan, Advanced Nurse Practitioner specialising in adrenal and pancreas diseases, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH).
“It lifts everybody. It really shows what can happen when you bring together people who are living with Parkinson’s Disease,” according to Gary Boyle, Patient Advocate, commenting on an event held recently in HSE Primary Care Services, Bray, Co Wicklow, to mark World Parkinson’s Day.
“What I love about this job is that I regularly go home knowing that we did good that day and kept a person well,” according to Ann Conlon, Healthcare Assistant, Rehab and Recovery, Longford Westmeath Mental Health Services. Reflecting on the work she does, Ann explains that they have approximately 58 clients “on our books here in Mullingar.
“I am very grateful for the expert help and advice from Sheila in getting through the persistent issues I had with breastfeeding Halle,” explains mum Kelsie O’Mahony, from Schull, Co Cork, reflecting on her positive experience of the support she received from Sheila Lucey, West Cork based public health nurse and lactation consultant.
“It was with absolute pleasure that I announced the recipients of the annual Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) Heroes Awards,” according to Lucy Nugent TUH CEO, speaking at an event to mark the Annual Awards. “Our recipients were nominated by their peers and some by patients - recognising that they go that extra mile, and live our vision of ‘People Caring for People to Live Better Lives.’ I would like to congratulate them all and acknowledge the contribution they make to our hospital, to the lives of our patients, and to their colleagues.”
HSE staff recently gathered at a Waterford award-winning mural to highlight the importance of breastfeeding. The ‘Annabelle and Billy’ mural in Ballybricken, completed by London-based French street artist Zabou, is on the gable end of Mulligan’s Pharmacy, at the junction of Ballybricken Green and St Patrick’s Terrace in the town.
“I am very focused on delivering meaningful patient centred care. I want to ensure that patients who attend my service are empowered, educated and equipped to manage their conditions,” according to Siobháin Kiernan, who was recently appointed to the role of Advanced Nurse Practitioner in General Paediatric Integrated Care at Portiuncula University Hospital (PUH).
“It was fantastic to see the number of people in pink at parkruns around the country helping to raise awareness of sepsis,” according to Denise McCarthy, ADON (Assistant Director of Nursing) Sepsis, HSE South South West Hospital Group, speaking of the initiative held recently to mark World Sepsis Day. “We know that early recognition and treatment of sepsis can lead to better outcomes so we wanted to include communities in our approach to increase knowledge around the signs and symptoms.”
Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) based Dr Adam Dyer was recently presented with the Stefania Maggi Award at the 20th European Geriatric Medicine Society (EuGMS) Conference for new research which has implications for the detection of early Alzheimer's Disease.
Medical Consultants and other healthcare experts from Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) will give a series of free Health Talks for the public on a range of topics including Sepsis, Stroke, Menopause and How Patients can best Prepare for Surgery over the coming weeks. Coinciding with October Health Awareness Month in the Tallaght Community, all of the presentations will take place in the Conference Room at Tallaght County Library. All talks are free to attend.
Supporting Roma mothers during pregnancy and childbirth is of vital importance to the HSE. Many Roma women do not come forward for health checks early in their pregnancies due to a lack of awareness about the Irish healthcare system.
“We are delighted that so many General Practice Nurses took time out of their busy practices to join us. Their commitment to advancing patient care and enhancing their skills in this vital area is truly commendable,” according to Liz Carroll, Professional Development Co-ordinator GP Nurses, HSE South East Community Healthcare, speaking as General Practice (GP) Nurses from Carlow, Kilkenny, Waterford, Wexford and South Tipperary came together for a Study Day hosted in Kilkenny recently.
A group of volunteer islanders received Emergency First Responder Certificates and Emergency Services Driving Certificates from the HSE National Ambulance Service (NAS) at a special presentation held on Árainn/Inis Mór, off the coast of Galway, in recent weeks.
“I look forward to each and every appointment with my Community Intervention Team at my local primary care centre,” according to John Wall, a cancer patient in Ennis, sharing his experience of receiving cancer care in the community. “As strange as this may seem, this is simply because I now look forward to the chats and no longer fear the needles or whatever else may arise. The Community Intervention Teams around the country provide an absolutely invaluable service to patients and in so doing allow people like myself to avoid having to attend an acute hospital setting where possible.”
The HSE’s Clinical Lead in ePharmacy Brid Ryan is clear about the value of the feedback and insights brought by patient partners involved in the National e-Prescribing Project. Patient advocate Bernie O’Reilly, Patients for Patient Safety Ireland, and Pat Power, are two of the patient representatives on the project. They were among a number of patients to respond to an expression of interest circulated for patient representatives through the HSE National Patient Forum.
The HSE Substance Misuse Team in Waterford recently hosted Minister of State with responsibility for the National Drugs Strategy, Colm Burke TD, at their premises at St Otteran’s Hospital. The Minister was welcomed by Lisa Robson, Clinical Lead, Substance Misuse, HSE South East Community Healthcare. The Minister heard from various team members who provided an overview of their services. The Minister also heard from members of the local HSE Health and Wellbeing team.
Forty years after USA president Ronald Reagan presented Cork’s Monica O’Kelly with her Paralympic silver medal, Monica gathered with her fellow residents at the HSE-run Farranlea Community Nursing Unit (CNU) to celebrate - and watch the 2024 Paralympics.
Research just published in the leading international journal “Alzheimer’s Research and Therapy” outlines research on the effectiveness of a blood test in identifying the presence of Alzheimer’s disease. The research carried out in the Institute of Memory and Cognition at Tallaght University Hospital looked at the performance of a new blood test (plasma p-tau217) to detect the amyloid plaques that build up in the brain in people with Alzheimer's disease.
“I have an excellent team of people behind me as well as the most wonderful nurse, who’s been very attentive with me. She’s gotten me through my infections at home on both occasions,” that’s according to Frank Galway patient Frank O'Connell, who was diagnosed with COPD nine years ago, and who was sharing his experience of virtual care in recent weeks. He described the profound impact being treated at home had on his daily life, explaining that “there’s an immense difference being treated at home as opposed to going into hospital. I hope the service is there for a long time to come, I really appreciate it.”
“This data shows the volume and complexity of trauma work that University Hospital Galway manages. Our clinical teams are providing an essential, life-saving service for the entire region while managing an increasing caseload,” according to Dr Alan Hussey, Clinical Director of Saolta’s Perioperative Directorate, who was reflecting on a study carried out by doctors at University Hospital Galway (UHG) which revealed the changing presentation of trauma patients, with a doubling of cases and older patient profile emerging over the course of a decade.
The introduction of a Nurse-Led Urology Clinic at Roscommon University Hospital for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) has significantly enhanced patient care, reduced waiting times, while also reducing the number of patients who require consultant urologist review.
“It is important to acknowledge the positive impact the move to community living is having on transforming the lives of people living with intellectual disabilities,” according to Edel Quinn, Head of Service for Disabilities for Community Healthcare Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim, Monaghan, Sligo (CH CDLMS). “The move to community living (or de-congregation) process as a whole has been a huge undertaking and is still ongoing. It would not be possible without the support of the residents, families, staff and the HSE.
“Colleagues throughout the mental health services in the South Tipperary area, whether in residential or community settings, prioritise the welfare of those we care for and support,” according to Aisling Carroll, Activities Co-ordinator, Haywood Lodge, speaking as residents and clients participated in and won prizes during recent Summer Show outings.
The team behind the HSE National Patient Safety Alerts were recent winners of the National Innovation Award in the Best Design Led category at this year’s HSE Spark Summit. The Spark Innovation Programme seeks to support, promote and recognise innovation amongst healthcare staff within the HSE. The programme recognises the unique insights and perspectives of all frontline healthcare workers.
“I used to have to go to the GP every couple of weeks. I got lots of chest infections, but I haven’t had one since I did the course,” according to Rose Brennan, from Dublin North Central, speaking about her experience of attending pulmonary rehabilitation – a specialised programme of exercise and education. Rose added that she was “very thankful for doing the course because it’s made a huge difference to my everyday life.”
“Projects such as Integrated Hand and Wrist Clinic are a perfect example of collaboration and exemplify our ability to deliver enhanced care in a hospital without walls to better the patient’s experience,” according to Head of Innovation at Tallaght University Hospital Natalie Cole, speaking after they received over €300,000 from the HSE’s Spark Impact Innovation Fund.
“The atmosphere was amazing through all areas of the hospital, with heart-warming scenes of residents and their families making memories and enjoying an afternoon of entertainment,” according to Nicola Scanlon Fox, Director of Nursing at St John’s Community Hospital reflecting on the inaugural Wise Roots age friendly festival held on the grounds of the facility in recent weeks.
“The Open Day was a great opportunity for our staff to showcase their work,” according to Pat Mooney, General Manager, HSE National Ambulance Service (NAS) Midlands and Dublin Area, speaking after Tullamore Ambulance Station crews recently invited the local community to join them in learning about the life-saving work they carry out on a daily basis.
“Observing the patient journey and listening to the patient’s voice drove me to create a business case for a Community Chest Pain Clinic as an alternative to the Emergency Department (ED) for non-acute chest pain patients,” according to Shirley Ingram, an Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Tallaght University Hospital (TUH). Shirley’s specialty is the assessment and diagnosis of chest pain.
"This has been a wonderful opportunity for men in Kerry to meet with a range of health and community professionals in a one-stop-shop; ask the questions, get the information, avail of the supports - and catch up with one another too,” according to Michelle Foley, Health Promotion and Improvement Officer with HSE Cork Kerry Community Healthcare, as she encouraged men in Kerry to take positives steps in minding their health in the weeks after the popular Men’s Health at the Mart event.
“The highlight of my Public Patient Partnership (PPP) experience so far has been realising that we PPP reps are valued and really listened to,” according to Will, who is encouraging others to join the PPP Network at the HSE National Screening Service (NSS). “You will see the changes that you have suggested whether it’s documents, leaflets, letters or processes – you know you are making a difference.”
A creative writing group established under the auspices of the HSE Mental Health Services supported Involvement Centre in Kilkenny has recently launched an anthology of poetry and prose. Entitled ‘White Twine and Old Suitcases’, the book was launched by Urlingford poet, writer and storyteller, Paddy Doyle. The publication was arranged by the HSE’s Recovery College South East, representing over a year’s work by 60 writers from the Co Kilkenny area.
University Hospital Galway (UHG) has become the first hospital in Ireland to introduce a new device designed to help patients suffering with heart failure better monitor their fluid levels in the body. Galway woman, Sheila Concannon from Spiddal, was the first patient in Ireland to be fitted with this early warning sensor which alerts medics to the patient’s condition worsening.
Through its Excellence Awards, the HSE annually showcases staff innovation. The awards are an opportunity to celebrate examples of the great work that happens every day across the health service. They aim to encourage and inspire health service staff to develop and improve care and services for their patients, clients and communities. Applications are now open for the 2024 Health Service Excellence Awards. This year, there is a new category for projects focused on sustainability and climate action.
“I go home happy every day knowing that I’ve made somebody’s life a little bit better,” according to Paula Curran, Health Care Assistant working in the Day Centre for Older Persons in Clonskeagh Hospital, Dublin. Paula has been in her role for a number of years and really enjoys her work: “On average, on a weekly basis here, we would see between 75 to 80 clients – different people every day. Working as a Health Care Assistant I love making people feel happy. I love being able to do things for them. We work very well as a team here in Clonskeagh.”
A variety of organisations are currently working together to improve the health and wellbeing of the Roma community in Co Tipperary. The HSE, Tipperary County Council and Youth Work Ireland Tipperary recently launched a needs assessment overview in addition to a report on the work of the Health and Accommodation Pilot Project that was established locally in 2022.
“This day marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to support cancer patients and their families throughout Ireland. These centres provide invaluable psychosocial support and survivorship programmes, ensuring comprehensive care for those living with and beyond cancer,” according to Prof Risteárd Ó Laoide, National Director, HSE National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP). Prof Ó Laoide was speaking as the NCCP and Minister of State at the Department of Health, Colm Burke TD presented each member organisation of the NCCP Alliance with a plaque at a dedicated event.
“Since the community clinic started, I don’t have to attend the hospital as much. The best thing about it is the calm environment and the convenience for me as I can avoid the busy hospital,” according to Sean Crombie, a haematology patient under the care of the Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore, who recently began attending the new Community Haematology Oral Anticancer Medication (OAM) Clinic at Tullamore Primary Care Centre.
In the evolving landscape of healthcare, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all patients is paramount. For neurodivergent individuals, navigating the high-stress environment of an Emergency Department (ED) can be particularly challenging. However, Tallaght University Hospital's ED is pioneering efforts to address these challenges, setting a standard for neurodiversity-friendly care.
A new, free illustrated storybook ‘Safe Harbour’ that will support children who have been bereaved by suicide, is now available.
“This new laboratory means we can quickly and accurately identify dangerous substances in drug samples and detect emerging drug trends. Understanding what's happening in real-time allows us to offer relevant, effective support to people who use drugs. It also allows us to support healthcare professionals, making a significant difference in people's lives,” according to Bill Ebbitt, General Manager, HSE, at the National Drug Treatment Centre.
“The Change Café is somewhere that people can come to and engage in an open and honest conversation,” according to Eleanor Moore, Principal Community Worker, Cork Kerry Community Healthcare.
Sligo University Hospital (SUH) recently received a second Green Flag from An Taisce. The internationally recognised Green Flag was awarded following a rigorous assessment process and recognises the commitment of hospital management and staff, HSE Estates, the NUI Galway Medical Academy and the hospital’s Green Campus Committee in developing the hospital as a healthcare facility that delivers high quality care and improved public health and wellbeing in an environmentally responsible and sustainable way.
John Donovan from Kildare is being treated for an advanced form of kidney cancer at Tallaght University Hospital (TUH). Since November 2021, he has been taking part in a trial for a new drug called Belzutifan which, he says, is “keeping me alive for the past two years.”
“Feedback from CHI (Children’s Hospital Ireland) regional paediatric departments and most importantly, patients and their parents, has been overwhelmingly positive,” according to Dr Cathy Gibbons, reflecting on winning an Irish Healthcare Centre Award in recent weeks.
“Innovation to me involves coming up with new ideas and devices, but also developing new approaches to the use of established interventions,” according to Deirdre Fitzgerald, Consultant in Respiratory and Pleural medicine at Tallaght University Hospital (TUH). In medicine, pleural refers to the thin covering that protects the lungs.
“This event is a chance for all of us to celebrate our planet, to raise awareness about environmental conservation and to encourage action for a healthier and more sustainable future,” according to Jenny Dowling, Director of Nursing, Sacred Heart Hospital, Carlow.
Dr Aoife Doolan has recently set up a high-risk anaesthesia transthoracic echo clinic at Tallaght University Hospital (TUH), with funding from the Hospital Foundation and in collaboration with cardiology and surgery.
Two family rooms in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in University Hospital Galway (UHG) have recently been refurbished for use by families who have loved ones receiving treatment in the unit. The refurbishment of the rooms is credited to two organ donor families in memory of their loved ones.
Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) is to begin testing wearable devices which can be integrated into a digital platform for patients with severe asthma.
“This is a wonderful facility for the provision of older persons services in this community. It offers the most modern care in a homely and warm atmosphere. I am delighted to officially open the Ballyshannon Community Hospital, which will serve this area for generations to come,” according to Minister of State, Mary Butler, TD, as she performed the official opening of the new Co Donegal based Community Hospital in recent days.
“The completion and coming into operation of Haven House is the latest of investments, made over the last decade, in the provision of quality and safe mental health services for people in the South Tipperary area,” according to Mary Butler, TD, Minister of State, who performed the official opening of the facility in recent weeks.
“Parkinson’s disease affects everyone in different ways. There are so many ways that it affects people, so accessing something like a physiotherapy and speech group just allows people to maintain their function as it is, and manage their condition a little bit better,” according to Sean Cusack, Senor Physiotherapist, Arklow Primary Care Centre.
A new Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) led Parkinson’s Clinic has recently commenced at Sligo University Hospital (SUH). The clinic was established by SUH and Community Healthcare Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim, Monaghan, Sligo (CDLMS) to integrate all patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease who are under the care of a Consultant Neurologist or Consultant Geriatrician at SUH or Community Healthcare CDLMS into a single ANP led clinic for assessment and follow-up care.