CONCERN has been expressed about the delay in the scheduled time frame when the new multi-million Euro Ennis Primary Care Centre will be fully operational.
Deputy Michael McNamara recently asked the Health Minister Stephen Donnelly when the Ennis Primary Healthcare Centre at Station Road Ennis will be fully operational.
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said that HSE Estates has advised that the centre is scheduled to become operational during the third quarter of the year.
“The opening of the Station Road centre will be a significant development in the delivery of community-based health services for the people of Ennis and the surrounding area,” Minister Donnelly explained.
However, Deputy McNamara is concerned about the latest delay after he was informed by Mid-West Primary Care Manager, Carmel McLaughlin the HSE Estates Department has advised this centre will become operational “in the latter part of 2022”.
“The centre is currently being equipped and services will commence operation on a phased basis,” she stated.
As well as providing a full range of GP, nursing, therapy and dental services, the centre will also offer specialist nurse led clinics for the treatment of leg ulcers, as well as access to community diagnostics.
The minister said the staff based in Station Road will form part of the new Community Healthcare Network for the area, which will help the HSE to develop more integrated care based on the needs of the local population.
“The centre will support the Enhanced Community Care programme in Clare by serving as the base for a Chronic Disease Management team which will provide a county-wide service to individuals with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, COPD and asthma.
“An Integrated Care Programme for Older People team will also be based in the centre. This team will support older people over 75 years of age and those living with frailty to live well at home.”
The Sonas Medical Centre, which is being operated by Dr Conor Fanning, is currently operating out of the new Primary Care Centre.
East Clare correspondent, Dan Danaher is a journalism graduate of Rathmines and UL. He has won numerous awards for special investigations on health, justice, environment, and reports on news, agriculture, disability, mental health and community.