Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 June 2004
196 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has received a submission from 107 general practitioners in the Mallow General Hospital region, on the effects that the Hanly recommendations would have for the hospital; and if he is considering responding to the call for developments at the hospital to meet the needs of the people in the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18545/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI welcome the submission prepared by general practitioners working in the region of Mallow General Hospital. The submission rightly identifies an important role for the hospital in the future, and points to the valuable contribution it has made to the community for many years. I am committed to ensuring that Mallow General Hospital will be part of an integrated network of hospitals, providing the highest quality treatment and care for patients.
The general practitioners' submission expresses concerns about the perceived consequences of the Hanly report for the population served by Mallow General Hospital. It argues that Hanly would reduce patient access to emergency services within the important "golden hour". However, Hanly argues that the critical issue is speedy access to emergency treatment at the scene by first responders, such as trained ambulance personnel or general practitioners. This should be followed by rapid transfer to a hospital most able to meet their needs. This approach would make access to emergency services within the "golden hour" possible for a greater number of patients than reliance on the location of any individual hospital.
It is important to emphasise that the second phase of the Hanly process will examine every acute hospital, including Mallow General Hospital, before recommendations about services are formulated. The concern will be to ensure the best possible service for patients, taking account of geographic, demographic and spatial considerations. I have no doubt that the future of Mallow General Hospital as a vital element of health care will be secured in this context.
