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The Health Service Executive (HSE) has confirmed that appointments scheduled for Thursday, January 9th, in Cork City hospitals — Cork University Hospital, Mercy University Hospital, and the South Infirmary – Victoria University Hospital — will go ahead as planned. However, patients are urged to avoid travelling unless it is absolutely safe to do so.

Community facilities in Cork City, East Cork, and South Cork will also continue with scheduled appointments. Patients unable to attend are advised to contact their local team, where a rescheduled appointment will be promptly arranged.

Specific Hospital Updates:

Mallow Hospital:

• No in-person appointments will take place.
• Some outpatient appointments will be conducted via telemedicine or phone.
• All scheduled theatre procedures are cancelled, but endoscopy appointments will proceed as planned.

Bantry Hospital:

• Endoscopy services are cancelled.
• The Out-Patient Service will operate in the afternoon, and the Medical Assessment Unit will remain open.
• Patients will be contacted in case of cancellations.

Community Facility Impacts:

Appointments at community services in North Cork will also be disrupted. Affected patients will be contacted to reschedule. Virtual appointments may be offered where appropriate.

Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUMH):

Some appointments have been cancelled, including all non-urgent gynaecological appointments at the Lee Clinic. Patients have been contacted directly. Those with concerns should contact the CUMH at 021-4920500.

Cancelled Services in North Cork Include:

• Physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, community psychology, podiatry, audiology, dietetics, child development clinics, and eye care clinics.
• Dental services.
• Day services for older people.
• School vaccination programmes.
• Mental health day services, day hospitals, and outpatient services.
• Appointments at Integrated Care Programmes for Older Persons and Chronic Diseases.

HSE Statement:

Dr Andy Phillips, HSE South West Regional Executive Officer, praised staff efforts:

“Our incredible staff are working night and day to keep as many hospital and community services running as possible. I wish to sincerely thank everyone who is going above and beyond, including the Defence Forces and community organisations assisting us.

Please don’t take risks travelling in poor conditions. Let us know if you cannot attend, and we will quickly reschedule your appointment. Slips and falls are a significant concern, so please take extra care.”

Dr Phillips also encouraged non-urgent medical cases to use Minor Injury Units to ease pressure on Emergency Departments. For more information on Injury Units, visit HSE Injury Units.

Stay Safe in Cold Weather

For tips on staying safe during icy conditions, visit the HSE’s cold weather advice page at Severe Weather Events.