Michael Ferris
Question:194 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Health if he intends to reopen the closed beds in Ennis County Hospital, County Clare to eliminate the lack of privacy for male and female patients who are in the same ward at present.
Written Answers. - Ennis County Hospital.
The number and type of beds to be provided at Ennis County Hospital are matters for the Mid-Western Health Board. The board has given careful consideration to the question of hospital services for County Clare. In determining the number of beds required at Ennis General Hospital the board examined the population of the area and its characteristics; the number of patients who travel outside the county for hospital treatment and the relationship which exists between this hospital and Limerick Regional Hospital. Following assessment of all these factors the board decided that 78 in-patient beds and six day beds would be sufficient to provide an acceptable level of service.
From time to time with extra demand for beds male and female patients may have to be accommodated in the same area. However, every consideration is taken to provide them with privacy.