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The HSE South West has announced the cancellation of all non-urgent outpatient and clinical appointments across Cork HSE services on Monday, January 6th, due to concerns about dangerous travelling conditions. This cancellation affects appointments at several hospitals and community services in Cork.
The hospitals impacted include:
- Cork University Hospital (CUH)
- South Infirmary Victoria Hospital
- Mercy University Hospital
- Bantry Hospital
- Mallow Hospital
At Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUMH), gynaecology outpatient appointments have been cancelled. However, antenatal appointments will proceed as scheduled, and expectant mothers are advised to attend their appointments. Those with queries are encouraged to contact the hospital directly.
Urgent Appointments and Special Arrangements
HSE staff will contact patients with urgent care needs, including those requiring dialysis or chemotherapy, to make the necessary arrangements for these vital services.
Community Services Affected
The cancellation also extends to the following community services:
- Physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, community psychology, podiatry, dietetics, child development clinics, and eye care clinics
- Dental services
- Day services for older people
- Mental health day services, day hospitals, and outpatient services
- Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons (ICPOP) and Integrated Care Programme Chronic Diseases
Mental health service users in crisis or requiring urgent assistance are advised to contact their care team, GP, Southdoc, or their local emergency department.
Advice for the Public
Due to hazardous travel conditions, the public is advised not to attend the cancelled appointments. Staff will reach out to reschedule appointments as soon as possible, and where feasible, virtual consultations may be offered. Those unsure about their appointment status should contact the relevant office or person who issued their appointment.
Dr Andy Phillips, HSE South West Regional Executive Officer, commented:
“This decision has been made to ensure the safety of both patients and staff. HSE staff are prioritising service delivery for vulnerable patients and those with acute care needs. Staff are making transport arrangements for patients to get to vital appointments such as dialysis and urgent cancer care appointments.”
He further expressed gratitude to voluntary and community agencies assisting in transport arrangements:
“Every effort possible is being made to ensure that staff and those who use our services are kept safe, and that essential services are maintained. We have the support of voluntary and community agencies in getting staff to work, and we thank them for their support.”
The HSE South West will issue a further update on the situation tomorrow.