Hospital has drawn praise from HIQA
DEPUTY Michael Moynihan (FF) has called on Health Minister James Reilly to "value and to preserve" Kanturk Community Hospital.
Ahead of today's HSE forum meeting, Deputy Moynihan said the hospital provides essential care for high dependency patients and vital convalescent service which has freed up hospital beds.
He also refered to the most recent HIQA report, in which it stated that the hospital is located within walking distance of the town centre, which enabled residents to maintain contact with the local community.
The report also stated that there was a very strong community involvement at the community hospital, where an inspector noted that six volunteers were visiting, including musicians. 'Staff provided a high standard of resident care in a pleasant and open atmosphere,' stated the report.
He said that Kanturk, Millstreet and Macroom Community Hospitals all provide a huge service for their respective catchment area. "It would be easy, under budget pressure to be penny wise and pound foolish, but these community hospitals provide crucial services to older people and their communities, which would end up being far more expensive for the State if these beds and related service capacities are removed," said Moynihan.
Cllr Timmy Collins (Ind) said if Kanturk Community Hospital will be downgraded then it is the first step towards closure. "Kanturk hospital has always been brilliant," he said, adding: "I would be very disappointed if it is downgraded, but would not be surprised."
- MARIA HERLIHY
