Three additional neurology nurses will be hired at UHG this year, a move one leading Galway politician said was “a significant step in the right direction” for the specialty at the hospital.
The current cohort of four permanent neurology nurses at UHG, which includes two advanced nurse practitioners, will be bolstered by the three additional appointments. Neurology nurses provide a range of specialist services such as nurse-led clinics, rapid access clinics, telephone advice, and outreach services.
Minister of State, and Fine Gael Galway West TD, Hildegarde Naughton said it is hoped the appointment will reduce waiting lists, free up hospital resources, and deliver “significant improvements” for patients.
Shortages
.
“This isn’t everything that we wanted in terms of resources for neurological services, but it’s a good start heading into the New Year,” she said. “This additional allocation of nurses for Galway is a step towards addressing that historical deficit, but it’s only a step, and further resources are required in order to ensure timely access to quality services.”
The shortage of neurological nurses at UHG is part of a nationwide deficit. The Neurological Alliance of Ireland has claimed that 100 additional nurses are required in this area across the State. Minister Naughton acknowledged that waiting lists in the area of neurology were “unacceptable”.
