Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 May 2022
23. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Health his views on the difficulty that is being experienced in securing a locum doctor who will provide full-time cover at the minor injuries' unit in Cashel; if the issue of locum payment is acting as a disincentive when seeking to fill posts such as this; if he intends to address this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26879/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe MIU (Minor Injuries Unit) was established in January 2007 and is located on the grounds of Our Lady's Hospital Campus, Cashel. It is approximately 15 miles from the nearest Emergency Department in South Tipperary University Hospital.
The MIU is open for the treatment of minor injuries or ailments. There is a predefined treatment list, including the treatment of such incidents as stitches, dress minor wounds, cuts & grazes and wound infections. On average 83 clients use this service each week. Approximately 80% of the clients self-refer to the MIU, the remainder being referrals by GP's. The Service is free to those who attend.
The HSE has advised me that the MIU is normally a 5 day service (Monday - Friday). A locum doctor who was in place in the MIU finished on Friday 8th April 2022. The HSE secured locum medical cover who commenced on Tuesday 19th April 2022. However, the HSE has advised that due to unavoidable circumstances with accessing this medical cover over the last two weeks, services were reduced to 2 days per week.
The HSE have further advised that an agency Registrar has been secured full time and will commence on Monday 30th May 2022, and it is planned that the MIU will operate on a 5 day week basis.
