HSE staff from Letterkenny have been honoured for being behind one of a number of projects which have been recognised at the annual HSE Spark Summit.
The Letterkenny Pathfinder Team in Donegal introduced ‘point-of-care blood testing’ to reduce unnecessary Emergency Department visits for older adults.
Led by Advanced Paramedic Gary Gardiner and Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist Catherine Kelly (pictured above), this service used portable testing in the home to identify issues like dehydration or mild infection with results shared with GPs in real time.
Of the 50 patients assessed during the pilot phase, 86% of patients were safely managed at home, with 88% still at home after seven days and no adverse events.
The approach reduced ambulance use and Emergency Department strain, while improving patient experience and autonomy.
Supported by the Spark Impact Fund, this scalable model is reshaping urgent community care for older adults in Ireland.
Team members Catherine Kelly & Gary Gardiner, Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist & Principal Paramedicine Tutor with the Letterkenny Pathfinder Team, received the Best Hospital Avoidance Award for their project “Introduction of Point of Care Blood Testing for Letterkenny Pathfinder patients”.
It was one of 12 innovative solutions to healthcare challenges recognised at the annual HSE summit.
The event celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of frontline healthcare professionals, bringing together international experts, policymakers, and local innovators to explore latest advancements in healthcare innovation.
The HSE Spark Award winners show just some of the ways that using existing resources in different ways, can massively improve processes and reduce pressure on healthcare professionals.
Their project used point-of-care blood testing (POCBT) to reduce unnecessary trips to Emergency Departments.
With the help of GPs, POCBT was used on patients with low grade infections or mild dehydration. This initiative demonstrated that early intervention combined with therapy input can safely prevent ED visits.
Caitriona Heffernan, HSE Spark Innovation Lead, said: “The Spark Summit is just one day in the year – but it represents the culmination of countless hours of dedication, creativity, and collaboration by frontline staff across the health service.
“It’s an opportunity to honour and recognise their commitment to improving patient care through innovation. It not only celebrates their achievements but also demonstrates the power of face-to-face connection to inspire learning, spark new ideas, problem solving, and strengthen our shared drive to deliver better care across the HSE.”
“This unique event showcases the ingenuity of frontline healthcare professionals who, every day, are transforming the way we think, work, and care through innovative solutions.”
Speaking at the summit, Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, TD, said “At a time when our health service is under significant pressure, the HSE Spark Innovation Programme continues to highlight the strength, creativity, and commitment of our frontline workers.
“HSE Spark supports and mentors healthcare professionals to develop meaningful improvements, grounded in their day-to-day experience and close connection with patients and service users. It’s a reminder that even in challenging times, positive change is possible when we support and invest in those delivering care on the ground.”
