Respiratory specialist for Louth

THE HSE have confirmed that a dedicated respiratory specialist is set to be appointed in the Louth Hospital Group, following a query raised by Louth TD Fergus O’Dowd.

Deputy O’Dowd last week raised the issue in the Dail, when he asked the Minister for Health ‘if there is a dedicated respiratory doctor or consultant in the Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda that specialises in COPD; if there has been in the past; his plans in the near future to address any staff vacancy in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.’

In a detailed response, a spokesperson for the HSE confirmed that the current situation arose after a Respiratory Physician resigned from the Louth Hospital Group in August 2016.

Following this ‘ a Consultant Respiratory Physician has been appointed to the current Consultant vacancy through the National Recruitment Service. The successful candidate will assume full duties in August 2017.’

Deputy O’Dowd confirmed that he had also learned that measures have been taken to provide temporary cover for the post.

‘In the interim a Locum Consultant Physician has been appointed who is providing general medical services to patients.’

The HSE spokesperson added that specialist respiratory outpatient services are being delivered by two Consultant Respiratory Physicians until the permanent post holder assumes his post in 2017.

‘We are also exploring a potential short-term solution involving a Respiratory trained doctor.’

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a disease that makes it hard to empty air out of the lungs. This is because the airways get smaller leading to airflow obstruction. It can result in shortness of breath and/or tiredness.

Many people who are diagnosed with COPD will require ongoing specialist care, so the confirmation from the HSE that steps are being taken to ensure such care is available in Louth has been widely welcomed.