‘Progress’ across country in implementation of trauma strategy – HSE

Trauma services are continuing to develop at hospitals in Galway, Dublin, and Cork, with new facilities and additional capacity expected to come on stream over the coming months, the Medical Independent (MI) has been informed.

The recruitment process for the trauma unit with specialist services (TUSS) at University Hospital Galway (UHG) is in its final stages, a HSE spokesperson told MI.

The TUSS forms part of the national trauma strategy, A Trauma System for Ireland, published in 2023.

The HSE spokesperson said UHG has commenced the delivery of the planned trauma care service. “This targeted investment supports the continued development of the specialist spine service,” the spokesperson said.

“Once fully operational, this expanded capacity will significantly improve access to specialised trauma care across the region.”

In Dublin, the major trauma centre (MTC) at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital (MMUH) is being developed through “a phased implementation approach”, the spokesperson said.

“As with major healthcare developments of this scale, services will continue to evolve as additional capacity, infrastructure and workforce requirements are identified and delivered.”

An extension to the emergency department at MMUH, including three trauma bays and a CT scanner, is now complete “and is expected to become operational” within the next six months.

“In addition, the phase 1B capital project, comprising two trauma theatres and a diagnostic suite, is expected to be completed within the same timeframe,” according to the spokesperson.

“Once commissioned and operational, these developments will provide additional capacity and support further expansion of major trauma services at the MTC.”

In terms of recruitment, the spokesperson said that all funded consultant posts for the Mater MTC have been filled to date.

“No significant challenges have arisen in relation to the recruitment of medical staff,” the spokesperson said.

“Work is continuing to support the future expansion of trauma services in line with the objectives of the National Trauma Strategy.”

At the MTC at Cork University Hospital (CUH), “significant progress” has been made in expanding services.

The spokesperson said CUH’s helipad is now operational, “supporting the timely transfer of critically injured patients by helicopter.”

“Further developments are planned, with new trauma resuscitation bays expected to become operational within the next six months, representing another important milestone in the continued development of major trauma services.”