Fine Gael T.D. for Sligo – Leitrim Tony McLoughlin this week met with Health Minister Simon Harris to discuss the provision of a fixed Cardio Cath Lab service to be based at Sligo University Hospital.
A cardio catheterization laboratory allows medical professionals to visualise the arteries and chambers of the heart by using diagnostic imaging equipment, allowing them to identify any abnormalities.
The establishment of such a facility will benefit the people of Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, West Cavan, North Mayo, North Roscommon and the entire Northwest region.
The Assistant Government Whip states that a fixed Cardio Cath Lab in the Northwest should be prioritised, and notes that his “frustrations have boiled over on many occasions” due to the lack of urgency from Saolta Hospital Group and the HSE on the matter.
The Sligo TD says he felt a “greater willingness to resolve the issue” following his last meeting with Minister Harris.
McLoughlin says; “The Minister has agreed to expedite the proposed National Review on the provision of Cath Lab services nationally and to consult with all parties and groups on its terms of reference.
“He has also agreed that the review needs to be fair, robust, based on clinical and medical need and on providing safe and accessible emergency cardiac care for all patients in the Northwest and nationally.
“I can advise that the Minister will instruct his Department to immediately commence the preparatory work and ensure that the terms of reference are completed as soon as is possible. He also agreed to the review being conducted by an outside International expert.”
McLoughlin TD concluded by saying that he is “entirely committed to fighting to ensure that everything is done to deliver a fixed Cardio Cath Lab service at Sligo University Hospital.”
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