The construction of a new out-patient facility at Merlin Park Hospital could be completed next year after the Health Service Executive (HSE ) advertised a tender for the project, which is expected to cost €10.5 million.
The new facility will accommodate day procedures, outpatient appointments, and diagnostics, relieving pressure on University Hospital Galway (UHG ) and reducing waiting lists in the region.
Fine Gael TD for Galway West, Minister Hildegarde Naughton, told the Advertiser last evening that the project was very welcome as the new facility would take pressure of the University Hospital Galway (UHG ) campus on the Newcastle Road.
“I’m very pleased that the process has now moved to public procurement and a builder can be appointed for the construction of the facility, which is expected to take 15 months,” the Minister said.
“The present outpatient facilities in UHG are overcrowded – with patients unable to isolate - which resultantly causes a safety risk for patients and staff alike. The pandemic has shown us all the huge importance of appropriate isolation and this new facility will enable that to happen,” the local TD indicated.
“I am particularly pleased to see this facility being built in Merlin Park, given the huge importance of segregating elective and acute care - something I have been very strong in advocating for. Removing out-patient care from UHG is a very positive step in the right direction and will assist in the more efficient use of the Newcastle Road site,” the Galway TD commented.
The HSE received planning permission for the project last November, which will also include a single-storey out-patients unit for cystic fibrosis patients.
It will also create 88 new car parking spaces, 25 bicycle parking spaces, and a footpath connecting the hospital campus. Construction companies have until July 13 to respond to the advertisement.
“Improving the health service in Galway has been a priority for me since I was first elected, and while this announcement and the recent opening of two new theatres in Merlin Park are positive developments, there is more to be done and I am fully committed to ensuring that the people of Galway and the West have the medical facilities that they need,” Minister Naughton indicated.
