Plans for two additional bed blocks at UHG are set to be developed by a design team as part of the overall redevelopment plan for the hospital, Dep John Connolly has learned.
Dep Connolly, Fianna Fáil TD for Galway West, understands that the team tasked with designing the additional bed blocks will be appointed before the end of this year.
The proposed new blocks will have an additional 150 beds in each. Some of these will replace existing beds, but an additional bed capacity of over 200 is expected upon completion.
The issue arose during Dep Connolly’s meeting with local health officials, where he was also informed that the overall development of UHG will be undertaken on a phased basis.
Phase 1 involves the two new bed blocks, followed by a new Accident and Emergency unit, a new maternity and paediatric ward, and a new cancer centre.
“This is incredibly welcome news, not just for Galway, but for healthcare in the entire Western region,” said Dep Connolly. “The extra beds will address a number of serious challenges at UHG: Lack of beds; the resulting issue of patients spending excessive time with A&E; and the cancellation of procedures. Construction is a while away from starting yet, but the appointment of the design team is a huge step in a very positive direction.”
