SINN Féin TD for Kerry, Pa Daly, is asking the South/South West Hospital Group why elective surgeries at University Hospital Kerry are not going ahead.
While UHK management announced on Friday, September 9 that elective surgeries had been cancelled up to and including Monday September 12, Deputy Daly says it has been almost three weeks since elective surgeries were cancelled in UHK due to overcrowding.
“I am informed that surgeries remain cancelled with the exception of time-critical cancer operations,” he said.
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“Having been contacted by people working in the hospital, and asking for details for any credible plan to address the problem, I am still awaiting answers. I have asked the CEO of the South/South West Hospital Group for a reply and am awaiting a reply from either the CEO or the management in UHK.”
“I have also raised a number of questions regarding plans to resume surgeries, address staffing issues and the status of UHK as a Model 3 hospital to Stephen Donnelly,” he added.
MANAGEMENT at UHK have made a decision to postpone all elective surgery, with the exception of time critical cancer surgery, up until and including Friday, 10th September.
This is due to the increased demands on the hospital, as the Emergency Department (ED) at University Hospital Kerry is exceptionally busy.
They say the ED has been coming under continuing pressure with high numbers presenting with a variety of complex needs in recent days and weeks.
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This situation will be continually monitored and reviewed on a daily basis. All effected patients will be contacted directly by the hospital.
“We are cognisant of the impact this measure will have on those who are due to have elective surgery over the coming days and this decision was taken following consultation with South/ South West Hospital Group and only after all alternative options were exhausted,” reads a statement from the hospital.
“We wish to extend our apologies to the public for the inconvenience and distress this may cause.”
The Emergency Department remains open 24/7 , however, people presenting for non-urgent care should expect to experience long delays, therefore management at the hospital are asking members of the public to only attend in the case of a genuine emergency, advising that, where possible, a GP or Southdoc out of hours service be consulted in the first instance.
People are asked to consider alternative care and treatment options and keep the ED services for the patients who need them most. Non-essential referrals should be deferred and the alternatives above considered.
THERE were 26 patients waiting on trolleys at the Emergency Department of University Hospital Kerry this morning.
Nationwide there are 413 admitted patients waiting for beds this morning in the country’s hospitals, according to today’s Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation Trolley Watch.
This is the highest number of patients on trolleys in one day since the start of the pandemic.
THE latest figures from the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation shows there were 327 patients waiting on trolleys at University Hospital Kerry.
This is the biggest number since the INMO began recording the numbers back in 2006. In August 2020 there were 208 patients waiting on trolleys.
The total trolley figures for the month of August saw 6,367 patients waiting for beds across the country in the last month, more than double the number in August 2020. Meanwhile, today there are 20 patients waiting on trolleys at UHK.
.At the presentation of the cheque were members of the Listowel Youth group comprised members Conor Stack, David Canty, Ellen Godfrey, Fiona O’Connor, Hannah O’Connor, John Godfrey and Sophie Stack. Also involved were Youth Workers; Emer O’Neill and Brian Godfrey and Parish Priest, Canon Declan O’Connor.Gemma Brosnan, EDRGN, Dr Ahmed Abdelaziz, Medical Reg and Joe Cahill
A GROUP of young people from Listowel made a presentation 0f €3,368 to University Hospital Kerry on Friday afternoon after walking from the north Kerry town to Tralee.
The General Manager of UHK, Fearghal Grimes, along with both medical and nursing representative front line workers, formally accepted a cheque from members of Listowel Parish Youth Group Hospital Fundraiser.
The youth group completed a sponsored walk from St Mary’s Parish Church Listowel to UHK in Tralee to raise funds for the for the staff as a thank you for their selfless and heroic work through Covid 19.
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The Parish Youth Group Listowel (part of the community in St Mary’s Listowel) sponsored event was planned over five legs which youth members, leaders and supported by parents on the day walked in relay of pairs with a safety car.
The group completed the last leg together to arrive at the hospital at 3.30pm to present a cheque of funds raised.
The youth group who took part comprised members Conor Stack, David Canty, Ellen Godfrey, Fiona O’Connor, Hannah O’Connor, John Godfrey and Sophie Stack.
Also involved in the fundraiser were Youth Workers Emer O’Neill and Brian Godfrey and Parish Priest, Canon Declan O’Connor.
ALMOST €10 million investment of capital funding to support Kerry Healthcare services has been announced by Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly this morning.
In total €9,710,000 is being announced for Kerry Healthcare, including almost €5 million for significant refurbishment works for Listowel, Killarney and Cahersiveen Hospitals.
University Hospital Kerry will receive targeted investment to enhance and upgrade maternity services including an obstetrics theatre and provision of post Covid 19 specific care units.
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Kerry Fianna Fáil TD and Minister for Education, Norma Foley has welcomed the announcement.
The full list of projects is:
• Kerry General Hospital – Will receive €1.7 million for a Blood Science Project (Extension & Refurbishment of existing pathology laboratory to facilitate management services tender.)
• Kerry General Hospital – Will receive €750,000 for the creation of 5 No. new single ensuite rooms in an existing admin area (Rathass Ward).
• Kerry General Hospital – Funding will also be made available to decant and relocate specific UHK Outpatient Services to recently completed PCC in Tralee: (To optimise patient care while minimising risks to the public, to healthcare staff, and to the wider healthcare service.)
• Kerry General Hospital – In total €400,000 Maternity birthing development to include triage assessment, 8 bed anti natal ward, 3 bedroom induction rooms, 4 birthing rooms and ancillary accommodation.
• University Hospital Kerry – Almost €11 million was set aside for the provision of an additional Theatre (Obstetrics) plus upgrade of existing theatres and plant in 2020 as part of a five year Capital programme. This year €900,000 will be invested in the project.
• University Hospital Kerry – €200,000 will be provided for a new addressable emergency lighting system.
• University Hospital Kerry – €1 million will be provided for the reconfiguration of existing HDU to deliver five post Covid HDU compliant beds (with potential to increase to six beds).
• University Hospital Kerry – has already been provided with a second CT Scanner for UHK.
• University Hospital Kerry – €150,000 has been invested in a new UHK Water Infrastructure Replacement.
• Caherciveen Hospital will receive €2.28 million for refurbishment and extension works.
• The will also receive €50,000 for the provision of a new ambulance station in Cahirciveen.
• Killarney – CNU – Replacement via PPP for 130 bed facility (figure to be released later)
• Listowel Community Hospital will receive €2.28 million for refurbishment and extension works.
.From left; Courtney Griffin with UHK ED staff member Deirdre Barry and Janna Foley with UHK ED staff member Aisling Nicholson at Paradise Hair and Beauty on Monday. Photo by Dermot Crean
A LOCAL hair and beauty salon held a special event to treat frontline workers at University Hospital Kerry on Monday.
Paradise Hair and Beauty at Lower Rock Street opened its doors to treat the staff from the Emergency Department and they were fully booked for the day.
“It’s a staff appreciation day so we’re doing hair and beauty treatments for the ladies and we have a barber in for the gents too,” said Janna Foley from Paradise. “It’s just to say thank you to the staff there for all their hard work over the past year.”
.Kerry GAA Chairman Tim Murphy makes a presentation to UHK General Manager Fearghal Grimes, joined by UHK staff CNM2 admissions Karena Gilligan, Dr Yasir Ali Medical Registrar; Dr George Dargaville Medical Registrar; Anne O’ Shea S/N Cashel Ward and Dr Martin Boyd Consultant in Emergency Medicine. Photo by Dermot Crean
REPRESENTATIVES of the teams of front line healthcare workers at University Hospital Kerry, were delighted today to accept a specially framed Kerry county jersey with message of ‘thanks’ from Kerry GAA
In recognition of the tireless work by frontline staff, the presentation was made by Kerry County Board Chairperson Tim Murphy who said.
“Our frontline workers are the real heroes in this global pandemic and this is a wonderful way to acknowledge them,” he said.
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The initiative to acknowledge the efforts of frontline workers has received a huge reaction and has already been picked up in all four provinces, following its launch by GAA radio commentator Tommy Devance in Galway.
On behalf of front line workers in UHK, Fearghal Grimes General Manager of UHK thanked the Kerry County Board;”It is an honour to receive this presentation, we also want to recognise the incredible efforts local GAA clubs played throughout the pandemic in supporting their local communities and in particular in helping the elderly throughout the county.”
THE Cardiology Unit at University Hospital Kerry has been upgraded and moved to an open plan location within the hospital.
Fianna Fáil Cllr Mikey Sheehy has welcomed the upgrade, saying “it is a great positive at a time when our health service finds itself under so much pressure. The reconfiguration will be of huge benefit to both patients and staff. This is a positive step in the right direction in terms of the HSEs commitment to the service in Kerry.”
The Unit moves to a custom space which now has individual consultation and scanning rooms. This means that vital assessments and procedures that need to be undertaken during the COVID19 pandemic can be done so in a much safer environment for both patients and staff.
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Cllr Sheehy, who sits on the HSE’s Southern Regional Health Forum, added; “Cardiac care is an essential function that must be retained and, furthermore, expanded in Kerry. The appointment last year of a full time Cardiologist was an overdue addition to the service and has had a hugely positive impact. Today’s news is a further advancement of cardiac care in the county.”
This news comes as staff in UHK were administered the first batch of the COVID19 vaccine yesterday (Tuesday).
It is understood that all staff in the hospital will have had the opportunity to receive the vaccine within the next week.
“This is the beginning of a large scale distribution programme nationally which hopefully marks the beginning of the end and at last some light at the end of the tunnel,” said Cllr Sheehy.
“We all need to do our part and adhere to the guidelines to ensure we minimise the pressure on front line staff over the coming weeks as the vaccine is rolled out to the most vulnerable and those who need it most with our community. These frontline UHK staff deserve this protection.”
.UHK Children’s Ward Nurse Manager Jackie McCull (right) with Kerry GAA players Colum Harty, Oisín Maunsell, Jordan Conway and David Moran who were delivering Ciarraí Óg boxes to the Children’s Ward on Friday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
MEMBERS of Kerry GAA teams were on hand at University Hospital Kerry on Friday morning to deliver special presents to patients in the Children’s Ward.
This year, Kerry GAA launched their Ciarraí Óg boxes which contain a host of goodies including a drinks bottle, pencil case, drawstring bag, letters from Kerry managers and a whole lot more (see poster below).
“We as an executive thought it would be lovely to gift some of these boxes to the patients in the children’s ward of UHK,” said Emma Sweeney, County Board Officer.
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“After speaking to the Nurse Manager, Jackie McCull and the assistant manager Marie, it was arranged that the boxes would be presented to Jacky outside of the hospital in keeping with COVID regulations by myself joined by some very special guests, David Moran (Kerry footballer), Colum Harty and Jordan Conway (Kerry hurlers) and Oisín Maunsell (Kerry Minor football captain).”
“We in Kerry GAA appreciate all of the work that the front-line staff in all hospitals have been doing and especially appreciate the staff in the children’s ward looking after our youngest fans and potential future stars all through the year and we really hope that they enjoy their boxes! We also wish a very healthy and happy Christmas to all patients, staff and front line workers in all hospitals.
Jacky McCull was delighted to accept the boxes on behalf of the children. “We’re always grateful to the Kerry footballers and hurlers for calling to the ward at different times of the year for special occasions, but unfortunately this year we can’t have anybody calling.
“But we’re very grateful to get the boxes donated and lots of other people have been very good to us this year as well and we always appreciate it and hopefully next year we’ll have the team coming and maybe with Sam Maguire!” she said.
SINN Féin TD for Kerry, Pa Daly has slammed the HSE over nursing staff resources at University Hospital Kerry.
Deputy Daly said he has been hearing from informed sources that many nurses on the front-line are “at breaking point”.
“This week I am hearing that there are only four nurses per ward in University Hospital Kerry, with no regard for staff breaks. Every day in UHK seems to bring staff shortages,” said Deputy Daly.
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“For a number of weeks I have been hearing from staff on the frontlines who are near breaking point. Staff are doing their best, but are dealing with unimaginable levels of mental and physical exhaustion. Similarly I am hearing from student nurses whose internships and placements are negatively affected by these same staff shortages.
“There is no opportunity to train when the wards are under-staffed and resources are placed under severe pressure.
“Compounding this, students nurses are not being paid a fair wage for extremely hard work under difficult circumstances; these nurses go far beyond their educational remit and are relied upon as if they were full-time staff. The very least the government and the HSE can do is to pay these nurses a living wage,” concluded Deputy Daly.
.Receiving the Kerry Gift Cards at University Hospital Kerry this week were UHK Sports and Social Club members David Hobbert, Sean O’Dowd, Mairead Enright, Cora Walsh and UHK General Manager Fearghal Grimes. Photo by Dermot Crean
THE Sports and Social Club in University Hospital Kerry this week received a consignment of the Kerry Gift Card.
Looking to throw their support behind Kerry businesses and to show their gratitude for the ongoing assistance from local businesses, the Club have purchased a batch of the new gift cards to be raffled amongst staff in the hospital.
Cora Walsh, speaking on behalf of the UHK Sports and Social Club said; “This year has been tough for everyone and our teams here in UHK more than ever need a reward this Christmas. While we won’t this year be able to host our usual Christmas party events, we want to make sure we can say thank you to the staff of UHK.
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Despite the pressure local businesses have been under, they continued to support our team throughout the year, and with our staff based throughout the county the Kerry Gift Card is an ideal way to reward our team and pay back local businesses”.
Ken Tobin, CE of Tralee Chamber said; “When Cora and the team in UHK made contact, we were delighted to put them on to One4all to organise their corporate order of the Kerry Gift Card. It’s another great show of unity from the team in UHK to support local businesses throughout the county.
“The Card can be used in hotels, shops, salons, restaurants and many more businesses throughout Kerry, so no matter where they are based in Kerry, they have plenty of choice. We continue to urge people to get the Kerry Gift Card and spend it to give the benefit to businesses now when they need it.”
The Kerry Gift Card is being supported by the Chambers throughout Kerry and Kerry County Council in order to generate much needed local spend.
The public sector and corporate business community are being urged to consider the Kerry Gift Card as a reward for their staff this Christmas. For more details contact business@tralee.ie or check out www.kerrygiftcard.ie
.Pictured at University Hospital Kerry this week, l-r: Andrew Macilwraith (Chief Fire Officer), Tom Brosnan (Kerry Civil Defence), Sgt Tim O’Keeffe (An Garda Síochána), Charlie O’Sullivan (Director of Roads, Transportation and Marine, Kerry County Council), Fearghal Grimes (General Manager, University Hospital Kerry).
STATUTORY and public bodies in Kerry are urging members of the public to be prepared for the winter months and to be ‘Winter Ready.’
The HSE, Kerry County Council and An Garda Síochána are encouraging households to make preparations for adverse weather, particularly during the current pandemic, and to ensure that neighbours reach out to older or vulnerable households at this time to ensure that they are prepared for winter weather.
‘Be Winter Ready’ is a co-ordinated annual campaign involving statutory services which aims to raise public awareness about the challenges which winter can present.
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The local organisations are drawing the attention of the public to the www.winterready.ie website which has useful tips and information for members of the public, including advice on how to avoid trips and falls, and how to make sure your home and family are prepared for winter.
Local statutory bodies will be promoting important messages over the coming weeks around issues like road safety, preparing the home, health and wellbeing, advice for older people, and details of important emergency contacts.
Specially prepared ‘Winter Ready’ fridge magnets have been prepared by the Cork-Kerry Interagency Emergency Management Office and these will be distributed through the Kerry Public Participation Network (PPN) over the coming weeks.
The magnets will provide specific contact details for use during an emergency such as numbers for the ESB, Irish Water, local Garda station and the County Council.
All of the local agencies including the Health Service Executive, An Garda Síochána, Kerry Fire Service, Kerry Civil Defence and Kerry County Council work closely together to ensure a coordinated response to any emergencies which may arise over the winter months.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kerry Community Response Helpline remains open from 9am to 5pm seven days a week on 1800 807 009 and provides support and advice for non-medical issues during the current public health emergency.
SINN Féin TD for Kerry, Pa Daly, has called for additional resources to be provided for UHK’s Rheumatology Department.
Deputy Daly said he has written to Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly asking his support for additional resources in the department which he said is grossly under-staffed and resourced at the moment.
He said this is resulting in severe delays on waiting lists and horrific pain and distress to those in Kerry that rely on UHK for care.
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Deputy Daly listed statistics from the Kerry branch of Arthritis Ireland which showed the number of people waiting for a rheumatology appointment at University Hospital Kerry (UHK) increased by 26% between January and September this year to 588 patients.
He said the statistics supplied to him showed that additional staff were needed and he has called for one full-time Consultant, one full-time Advanced Nurse Practitioner and
one full-time administrative or secretarial staff member.
“We are hearing serious concerns from inside the hospital that there is an imminent risk of the hospital being downgraded,” said Deputy Daly. “This will result in Kerry people travelling to Cork for diagnoses and treatment. We deserve a better level of service and I have asked Minister Donnelly to support my call for these resources to be funded as a matter of urgency.”
DEPUTY Michael Healy Rae TD has called on the Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly to give University Hospital Kerry (UHK) the vote of confidence to proceed immediately with the planned construction of a new Orthopaedic Clean-air theatre.
The Kerry deputy said he still has grave concerns over the commitment following a Parliamentary Question placed to the Minister in relation to Orthopaedic operations in UHK.
Despite the resumption of a number of services since early June 2020 UHK, Michael Healy Rae still feels that the “A & E, when it comes to orthopaedic cases, will be nothing more than a dressing station and a referral unit to refer the patient to somewhere else to have the necessary procedure that they require to be carried out.”
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While welcoming the fact that since June 2020 that a number of services have recommenced in UHK, Michael Healy Rae feels that there still has been no concrete promise of a new orthopaedic clean-air theatre despite it being mooted by the Minister as going to a design stage.
“University Hospital Kerry for all intents and purposes is shut down completely with regard to doing orthopaedic operations,” said Deputy Healy-Rae.
“I cannot believe that I am witnessing such a downgrading of our hospital in our county and I want to know why are you Minister allowing this to happen under your watch as it is an absolute thundering disgrace. We have an excellent hospital, we have excellent surgeons, we have excellent nurses and we are not been allowed to carry out the hip, knee and other operations that we require to be carried out.”
.A cheque for over €27,000, the proceeds of a recent fundraising cycle was presented to University Hospital Kerry. Photo by Valerie O’Sullivan
AN incredible €27,465 was raised from the enormous efforts of Denis Geaney and his ‘Team Geaney’ fundraising charity cycle of the Ring of Kerry in July.
The cycle, in aid of the ICU Department of University Hospital Kerry, was inspired by well known Kerry man Gene Tangney, of the Black Valley, Killarney, who had spent four months in ICU, after contracting the coronavirus.
This resulted in medical professionals at University Hospital Kerry placing him in an induced coma and ventilator to assist in his breathing for three months.
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The night before the cycle, Gene’s friends and family were greeted with the amazing news that Gene, though frail, had finally been released from University Hospital Kerry.
Gene was met with staff and management of the ICU at the hospital this week and it was very emotional for all.
Today Gene is in need of much rehabilitation and ongoing treatment and the recovery is slow. Gene also presented a framed picture for the ICU ward in grateful appreciation to the care and attention he received.
Speaking at the Hospital charity organiser Denis Geaney said; “We were absolutely delighted with the amount of money raised. The generosity of people never ceases to amaze me. Gene together with his partner Máire and close family went through hell and back, they are so loved and respected in Kerry. We felt this was a very positive and practical thing to do for Gene and the ICU department. Honestly it was the most enjoyable charity cycle in all my 37 years of the event.”
Gene, together with all the Tangney family, especially his son Feidhlim and daughter Fiadhna, partner Máire O’Grady, his dad, Dikey, sisters Siobhan, Susan, Irene, Mary Rose, brother Derry, nieces and nephews, Gary Christina, Claire, Michelle and Sinead are so grateful to the medical team and hospital staff in UHK.
Gene spoke at the emotional presentation; “I would like to pay tribute to Denis Geaney and his team for organising this wonderful and worthy event. I would also take this opportunity to thank each and every member of staff at the UHK and especially the team in the ICU, without them I would not be here today. To everyone far and who sent me messages of support and held a vigil for me during my darkest hour, thank you all. To my dad, my family and great friends, who have stood by me, thank you so much. Finally, to Máire my partner, thank you for your ongoing love and care, I’m forever in your gratitude.”
.The ‘Colours Of Hope’ Exhibition is running at University Hospital Kerry.
TO help raise the spirits of patients and staff, Tralee Art Group and University Hospital Kerry have recently collaborated to bring about an uplifting initiative to adorn the walls of UHK with bright, beautiful, colourfulart creations known as the ‘Colours of Hope Exhibition’.
Tralee Art Group members and some friends of Tralee Art Group, have produced seventy works which are presently on exhibit for staff / patients at University Hospital Kerry for approximately six weeks.
Members of the public can also view a selection of this artwork through a slideshow of the works available on the social media platforms of both Tralee Art Group and University Hospital Kerry.
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All works will be for raffled to raise funds to improve facilities for an ‘age-friendly’ hospital environment.
The exhibition was launched on 10th August and raffle tickets have sold very swiftly on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.
Each art piece is presented in a frame, providing great value to those lucky enough to have acquired a raffle ticket.
The number of tickets is limited to the number of pieces on exhibition, ensuring that anyone buying a ticket is guaranteed an original artwork by local artists. The raffle for art pieces will take place at the end of the six week exhibition (week commencing 21st September 2020).
University Hospital Kerry particularly wishes to extend their sincere appreciation and thanks to all those members of Tralee Art Group and friends of Tralee Art Group, who have generously given of their time, to this wonderful initiative.
A special word of thanks was also extended to Amanda Brolly Advanced Nurse Practitioner UHK in liaising with the Tralee Art Group to bring this exhibition to fruition. For more, see the University Hospital Kerry facebook page.
TO help lift the spirits of patients and staff, Tralee Art Group and University Hospital Kerry have come up with an uplifting initiative to adorn the walls of UHK with bright, beautiful, colourful creations.
Tralee Art Group members and some friends of Tralee Art Group, have produced 70 seventy works which will be on exhibit at University Hospital Kerry for approximately six weeks.
Entitled “Colours of Hope”, this exhibition will continue to be of healing value to all, as all works will be for raffle to raise funds to improve facilities for an age friendly hospital environment.
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At a cost of €50 each, raffle tickets will be on sale at the exhibition launch. Each art piece is presented in a frame, providing great value to those interested in purchasing.
The exhibition will be launched today Monday, August 10. A slideshow of the works will be available on the social media platforms of both Tralee Art Group and University Hospital Kerry.
Tickets, available from the launch date, will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. The number of tickets will be limited to the number of pieces on exhibition.
This ensures that anyone buying a ticket will be guaranteed an original artwork by local artists. The Raffle for art pieces will take place at the end of the six week exhibition (week commencing September 21).
.Team Geaney will cycle the Ring of Kerry later this month in ai of the ICU department at UHK. Launching the event were, from left; Eileen O’Leary, Mike Doherty, Denis Geaney, Siobhan Tangney, Batt O’Sullivan, Derry Healy, Mike Brosnan. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan
A RING of Kerry cycle will take place later this month in aid of University Hospital Kerry (UHK) ICU department to thank them for taking care of a well-known Kerry man who was seriously ill with COVID-19.
Gene Tangney of the Black Valley, contracted coronavirus, resulting in medical professionals at University Hospital Kerry placing him in an induced coma and ventilator to assist in his breathing for three months. He remains in hospital today, and is making a slow but steady recovery.
Fundraiser and cyclist Denis Geaney and his ‘Team Geaney’ crew are planning to Cycle the Ring of Kerry on Saturday, July 25, to raise funds for University Hospital Kerry (UHK) ICU department.
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In line with HSE guidelines recommendations, it will only be members of Team Geaney’s crew that will cycle on the day. They are encouraging people to donate to the Go Fund Me Page.
Denis is planning to stop in the usual iconic food stations along the way, the Red Fox, Jack Fitzpatrick’s in Caherciveen for ‘Tay and Brac’, a music stop at Coomakista and Black Shop Castlecove, onto Sneem, Kenmare and return to Killarney.
Gene Tangney.
Gene, together with all the Tangney family, especially his son Feidhlim and daughter Fiadhna are so grateful to the medical team and hospital staff in UHK. The 100,000 friends and well-wishers who lit candles in solidarity with Gene on Easter Monday night at 9pm kept them all going throughout his long ordeal.
Gene added; “ I owe my life to the Nurses and Doctors in the ICU Ward, the level of care, compassion and dedication I received was unbelievable. I am so grateful to Denis Geaney and his team for thinking of me and cycling the Ring of Kerry to raise funds for the ICU ward”. To donate please use GoFundMe https://gf.me/u/ygcrtc
.Jerry Lynch of the Lynch family presents a cheque for €1,800 to General Manager of UHK Fearghal Grimes accepting on behalf of frontline staff at the hospital. Photo by Dermot Crean
A WELL-KNOWN musical family from Tralee made a presentation to University Hospital Kerry staff this morning.
The Lynch family, who have many members involved with Tralee Musical Society, decided to record their own version of ‘We Are The World’ and set up a gofundme page with all money raised going towards UHK frontline staff.
The campaign has raised €1,800 and the family were delighted to make the presentation. Mike Lynch explained how it all came about.
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“Well it was my brother Jerry who started it off. It was something we wanted to do as a family to keep in touch with each other, but it grew and grew. We were recording pieces for the song and Jerry put it together as a video. We then decided to do a gofundme campaign for the people in the frontline. We had the easy job staying at home whereas they had to face the pandemic,” said Mike.
General Manager of UHK, Fearghal Grimes, expressed his gratitude on behalf of staff and explained where the funds will go.
“I want to thank the Lynch family for this kind presentation, it’s very much appreciated and recognised by the hard-working staff here in the hospital. The money will go into a ‘COVID Fund’ specifically for the staff and for a few initiatives in the hospital to improve the patient experience.”
THERE are 256 patients awaiting Orthopaedic Outpatient Appointments in University Hospital Kerry with 111 of them over 66 years of age, with some of those waiting up to a year already for an operation.
The most recent figures were released to Deputy Michael Healy Rae by the Department of Health following a Dáil question by the Kilgarvan TD.
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the HSE had to take measures to pause all non-urgent elective scheduled care activity with effect from the end March 2020.
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However, this has seen a “very significant waiting list for Orthopaedic Outpatient Appointments,” Deputy Michael Healy Rae has stated.
In all 256 patients were waiting for an orthopaedic outpatient appointment in University Hospital Kerry as at May 28.
“At present 111 people who are awaiting an orthopaedic outpatient appointment are over 66 years of age with 32 of those already waiting over six months and it looks like they will be waiting even longer as hospitals are working to find innovative ways to enable service provision, which include virtual clinics for some outpatient department appointments,” Deputy Michael Healy Rae confirmed.
Meanwhile the Department of Health has confirmed to Deputy Michael Healy Rae that there are 4,675 people awaiting CT Scans, MRI’s and Ultra Sounds at UHK with 1,327 people waiting over a year to date.
.Presentation to Chief Superintendent Eileen Foster at Tralee Garda Station by outgoing Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Niall Kelleher on Monday.
KERRY County Council has this week acknowledged the commitment, dedication and hard work of frontline workers in Kerry during the coronavirus emergency.
On Monday, the outgoing Cathaoirleach, Cllr Niall Kelleher, presented a ‘Cathaoirleach’s Acknowledgement’ to the management of University Hospital Kerry, representing health service personnel across the county, and to the management of An Garda Síochána to acknowledge the work of their members.
“As Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council during a very difficult and challenging period for our county, I was anxious, before I left the role, the pay tribute to those on the frontline who have helped to combat this unprecedented pandemic.
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“Staff across the health and community services as well as policing and the emergency services have shown immense dedication and professionalism in their approach to the current crisis,” said Cllr Kelleher.
“I was pleased to present a certificate of the “Cathaoirleach’s Acknowledgement” to the management of University Hospital Kerry as well as the Chief Superintendent of An Garda Síochána and her colleagues as a token of the appreciation of Kerry County Council and my council colleagues.”
Presentation to Fergal Grimes and Amanda Coulson, of UHK by outgoing Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Niall Kelleher on Monday.
THE Sports and Social Club at University Hospital Kerry has thanked the organisers of a fundraising tractor run which has raised €5,000 for the frontline workers.
They thanked the organising committee of the Tractor Run — Brendan Griffin, Justin Horgan, Eamonn Curby, John McElligott, Mossie J Harmon, Jeremiah Clifford and Martin Woulfe — which was held on Sunday and saw the convoy of over 110 vehicles leave Ardfert village and head to the hospital in Tralee.
Therese Carroll of the Club said; “On behalf of the sports and social club and the staff of UHK, we would like to thank you the organisers, and every one who braved the bad weather and took part in the Ardfert Tractor Run. Thank you to everyone who volunteered and did the bucket collections and stewarding along the route also. The event was a great success.
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“Seeing the convoy of tractors along the route but especially on the grounds of UHK, was a magnificent sight, and it most definitely lifted the spirits of the staff and patients alike who lined up to watch the marvellous display of tractors passing through the grounds of the hospital.”
“We are blown away by the generosity and kindness shown to us from your community. We endeavour that all staff will reap the benefits of your very thoughtful and generous donation,” said Therese.
KERRY Sinn Féin TD, Pa Daly, has expressed his disappointment at reports that two radiology staff are leaving or have already left University Hospital Kerry (UHK) and is looking for confirmation of this from the hospital.
Deputy Daly claims there once were five staff in the department and now only one will remain and says the provision of nightshift radiographers has been outsourced to agency staff or a private company.
“We in Sinn Féin are calling on UHK to confirm if this is the case. I submitted a parliamentary question on this issue two weeks ago, and am still awaiting a reply,” he said.
Deputy Daly said he is also concerned at the lack of investment in updated radiology equipment and claims support staff must rely on analogue equipment, with UHK the only hospital in Ireland not using digitised equipment.
He expressed fears that a lack of appropriate services will result in University Hospital Kerry being downgraded and said this would be catastrophic for the county.
MANAGEMENT at South / South West Hospital Group, which includes University Hospital Kerry, are appealing to members of the public to continue to follow the Government’s Covid-19 guidelines relating to social distancing and hand hygiene, to ensure that they do not contribute to the spread of the coronavirus.
The S/SWHG are urging members of the public not to make any unnecessary journeys outside 5km of their homes.
Management and staff in hospitals across the South/ South West Hospital Group are asking the public to continue to respond in the same positive and helpful manner as they have done since the Government introduced the current round of restrictions.
Management at the hospitals acknowledge that staying at home and staying isolated even under the slightly adjusted measures announced recently by the Government can be difficult, particularly over a long period and especially over long weekends.
Nevertheless, hospitals want to remind people again that they can save lives by staying at home and following Government and Public Health guidelines.
However if people are feeling unwell, the S/SWHG is encouraging people to contact their GP or go to the Emergency Department if they require urgent treatment. Hospitals in the S/SWHG have separate pathways in place for Covid-19 patients and those needing other care.
Gerry O’Dwyer, CEO, South / South West Hospital Group said: “This bank holiday weekend, we are urging members of the public to continue to abide by the guidelines regarding Covid-19 and in particular the social distancing and travel guidelines.
Across the S/SWHG, hospital staff are working tirelessly to fight this virus to provide safe, high-quality care to patients. The S/SWHG is very proud of our dedicated staff and how they have responded to this challenge.
The perseverance which staff across the Group have shown and their on-going commitment to providing the best possible care is greatly appreciated. Not adhering to the national guidelines will inevitably place extra pressure on the hospital system, which unfortunately could seriously impact you, your family, your neighbours or your friends.”
He continued: “Please think before you act and ask yourself, is this journey really necessary, am I keeping the appropriate distance, following cough etiquette and washing my hands. People should be aware that our hospitals remain open for people who are unwell and need treatment. The emergency departments across the S/SWHG have a number of measures in place, patients presenting will be placed on the Covid pathway or the non-Covid pathway. So people should be assured and know that they will receive the care and treatment they need.”
MEMBERS of frontline staff and management in University Hospital Kerry have today released a video message that thanks the people of Kerry for their continued support during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The video, which is available to view on the hospital’s social media, was recorded on the front lawns of UHK and features the hospital team with the simple message of ‘We Hear You’.
Fearghal Grimes, General Manager of University Hospital Kerry said; “Staff and Management at UHK wanted to say thank you to the people and businesses of Kerry, near and far, who have been incredibly supportive and generous over the past number of weeks”.
Have a look at the video below…
In the video a number staff at the hospital thank the public for their efforts in staying at home and for their generosity towards staff over the past few weeks.
THERE was just one patient waiting on a trolley in the Emergency Department of University Hospital Kerry in the past five days.
According to data from the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, the patient was waiting on the trolley on Tuesday.
Since Monday, just 41 patients were waiting on trolleys in the entire public hospital system in the country. These are unprecedented figures in unprecedented times.
Yesterday, the country”s Chief Medical Officer, Tony Holohan, urged members of the public to visit the Emergency Department of hospitals if they are experiencing significant health problems and not to let the COVID-19 crisis prevent them from attending and receiving treatment.
THE South/South West Hospital Group (S/SWHG), which includes UHK, has announced that the following private hospitals: Bon Secours Cork, Bon Secours Kerry, Mater Private Hospital Cork and UPMC Whitfield Waterford will be working with the South/South West Hospital Group in their efforts to combat the COVID-19 virus.
Following an agreement reached yesterday between the Government and The Private Hospitals Association, arrangements have been put in place as part of the State’s efforts to combat the virus and will remain in place for the duration of the Covid-19 crisis.
Continued below…
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There are now a total of 14 hospitals working together as part of the South/South West Hospital Group with the sole objective of supporting the community at this challenging time. This arrangement will remain in place while the Covid 19 crisis lasts.
Gerry O’Dwyer, CEO, South/South West Hospital Group said: “Access to services available in these four hospitals is a very welcome addition to the Group’s overall resources at this time. The S/SWHG have always enjoyed an excellent and cooperative working relationship with the private hospitals in the Group’s area. I have no doubt that yesterday’s agreement will bring together important health facilities that will improve the capacity of the S/SWHG in terms of beds, care units, intensive care and other necessary facilities that are required to address this crisis. I thank the hospitals concerned for their support and look forward to working with them at this challenging times as we strive to care for all patients in our area.”
He went on the to thank the staff and management of the hospitals in the South/South West Hospital Group, stating; “The perseverance which staff across the Group have all shown and their ongoing commitment to providing the best possible care to our patients is greatly appreciated. I and everyone else throughout the country are deeply grateful to our healthcare staff. You have all gone well above and beyond the call of duty.”
Finally, the Group CEO is encouraging everyone to keep themselves updated using trusted sources like HSE.ie and to follow the guidelines provided: “We all have a part to play in combating this virus, if we work together and follow the advice, we will get through this challenge”.
THERE are seven patients waiting on trolleys at the Emergency Department of University Hospital Kerry today, which accounts for nearly half of the total for the entire country.
Nationwide, there are just 16 admitted patients waiting for beds this morning in hospitals all over the country, according to today’s INMO Trolley Watch.
MANAGEMENT at UHK have made a decision to postpone all elective surgery, with the exception of time critical cancer surgery, up until and including Friday, 10th September.
