“Closure of these beds will mean patients will have to remain in treatment units for longer, or more worryingly they will be discharged home not having had the proper recuperation time. This situation is alarming to say the least and completely short-sighted”.
“Alarmingly there is increased fear that the respite beds in the hospital will close also due to staffing shortages. This would mean that elderly people who are granted a fortnightly stay in Macroom hospital annually, would no longer be able to avail of this service. This service is of huge importance to those who avail of the respite and their families; who benefit from the break they receive from full time care”.
“The HSE must take a more holistic view of how they allocate services. The convalescence and respite beds in Macroom hospital are easing the burden on Cork City’s main hospitals. Losing these beds will mean patients stay longer in hospital, and also risk re-admittance if discharged too early. This “penny wise pound foolish” approach will risk lives and the well being of those who need care the most”.