More than half of beds at a Donegal community hospital have been left empty for more than two years, Donegal Daily can reveal.
Despite a huge demand for step-down medical facilities and respite services, less than half of the 25 beds at Falcarragh Community Hospital have been in use since March, 2022.
This follows demands by HIQA (Health Information and Quality Authority) in 2022 that refurbishment works should be carried out to wards at the hospital.
These beds were due to be made available earlier this year.
However, we understand that the hospital is still operating at 40% bed capacity after HIQA said they were still not happy with refurbishment works at the hospital.
Two years ago in September, 2022, a HSE spokesperson told us “The refurbishment of the older wing of the hospital will ensure the quality and safety of care and the improvement of the lived experience of all residents.
“Furthermore, it will ensure the premises will be in compliance with HIQA regulations.”
That work was due to commence in the first quarter of 2023.
But we understand that despite refurbishment work being completed at the hospital, HIQA has still not signed off on the older wards.
A source said that approximately 11 of the 25 beds at the hospital are only being used.
We contacted the HSE and asked them the up-to-date status on bed availability at the hospital.
In a statement, a spokesperson replied “Falcarragh Community Hospital is currently undergoing a major capital refurbishment program which is being completed in three planned phases.
“Phase 1 is now complete. The HSE continues to engage with the Regulator in respect of the registration status.”
We further asked the HSE to clarify the number of beds being utilised at the hospital.
In a further statement, the HSE did not refer to the specific number of beds but replied “The major capital refurbishment program remains ongoing on a phase basis in Falcarragh Community Hospital.
“As works are being completed the HSE continue to engage with HIQA re the registration status.
“Falcarragh Community Hospital is currently utilising all long term care beds available within the centre.”
No expected completion date for refurbishment works leading to the reopening of the remaining beds at the Falcarragh facility was disclosed.
