Galway University Hospitals comprise of University Hospital Galway (UHG), a model 4 tertiary referral centre, and Merlin Park Hospital, a model 2 hospital, both located in the city of Galway.
A number of significant projects have been completed in UHG in recent years. These include the Clinical Research Facility, the upgrade of the Maternity Unit and the CF out-patient department.
In addition, major developments currently underway include construction of a 75 bedded Clinical Ward Block and an Adult Acute Mental Health Unit. Planned developments include a Radiation Oncology Project, new Blood and Tissue laboratory facilities and replacement of the current cardiac catheterisation laboratories, CT Radiotherapy and Radiology facilities.
Further, the Programme for a Partnership Government states that a new ED for UHG is currently being designed with a view to funding for construction being provided as part of the 2017 Capital Plan Review. The Saolta University Healthcare Group has advised that a cost benefit analysis in respect of this project is being finalised.
Given previous and on-going investment at the University Hospital Galway site, it would not represent value for money to develop a new hospital in the region. Accordingly, further investment in particular hospitals will be considered based upon the strategic priorities put forward by the Saolta University Healthcare Group and the competing demands on the Acute Hospitals Infrastructure Programme nationally.
The establishment of hospital groups provides opportunities to ensure that the most effective delivery of services is achieved across both the UHG and Merlin Park Hospital sites and that planning across sites ensures they are developed in line with the priority needs of the region.
Discussions at my recent meeting focused in particular on the immediate priorities of a new Emergency Department and the 75 bed clinical ward block.
