Donegal Deputy Charles Ward has voiced his full support for local GPs calling for the establishment of the regional surgical hub at Letterkenny University Hospital (LUH).
Local GPs wrote an open letter to the Health Minister calling for the hub to be set up in Letterkenny
Deputy Ward praised the unified stance taken by the Donegal GPs.
He said these doctors have highlighted the urgent need to tackle surgical waiting lists and improve access to timely procedures.
“The case for a surgical hub in Letterkenny is overwhelming,” Deputy Ward said. “Donegal patients face unacceptable delays and long travel times to access surgery. A hub based at LUH would not only bring services closer to home, but also alleviate pressure on other regional centres.”
The proposed surgical hub would form part of the national plan to develop elective only facilities across the country, aimed at reducing waiting times and separating planned procedures from acute hospital pressures.
“The GPs’ letter reflects the lived reality on the ground, patients waiting in pain, GPs frustrated at the lack of capacity, and a health service stretched to its limits,” Deputy Ward continued.
And he added “We need balanced regional development in our healthcare system, and that must include investment in Donegal.”
Deputy Ward called on the Minister for Health and the HSE to take immediate steps to ensure that Letterkenny is considered as the primary location for the surgical hub.
“I will be raising this matter directly with the Minister once again. The people of Donegal should not be left behind when it comes to access to timely, safe, and effective surgical care.”
And he commended the courage and unity shown by local medical professionals and pledged to continue working with stakeholders to bring a surgical hub to LUH.
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