St Francis' accommodates some hospital residents and staff during ongoing works

St Francis’ Welfare Home continues to be used to accommodate patients from Fermoy Community Hospital where upgrade works are ongoing, however, it has been confirmed that services will return to the community hospital once works there are complete.

When an update on the status of the facility, located on Rathealy Road in Fermoy, was sought by TheAvondhu, Cork Kerry Community Healthcare (CKCH) confirmed that whilst the project at Fermoy Community Hospital has been ongoing, St Francis’ Welfare Home has been used to accommodate patients that cannot receive their respite or short stay within Fermoy Community Hospital.

“Once the beds are available later in 2024, the services will return to the community hospital,” a CKCH spokesperson said.

Due to the bed relocation from the hospital to St Francis’ Home, which can accommodate up to 14 residents, the staffing cohort is also shared.

“Staffing levels always ensure that sufficient nursing and support staff are available, with the right knowledge and skill mix, to provide safe and high-quality care to all of our residents,” the spokesperson said.

MEETING REGULATIONS

Fermoy Community Hospital is currently undergoing a significant extension and refurbishment programme to comply with regulatory compliance requirements and also to meet the changing needs of residents. One such requirement is that registered providers must comply with regulations relating to physical environment and bedroom sizes.

“Refurbishment works have facilitated a move away from the ‘open ward’ model to more private rooms, resulting in enhanced facilities for our current and future residents and supporting their privacy, dignity and physical distancing to minimise infection transmission risks,” the spokesperson added.

Works at the hospital are expected to be completed during quarter 4 this year.