Overcrowding Persists at University Hospital Limerick Despite New Unit

The opening of a new 96-bed unit at University Hospital Limerick (UHL) has not alleviated the severe overcrowding in the Emergency Department (ED). Despite the investment of €105 million in the facility last month, patients continue to face critical conditions reminiscent of a battlefield. The hospital has reported a substantial influx of patients, with over 350 individuals attending the ED within a 24-hour period, many arriving without a referral from a general practitioner (GP).

Inside the emergency department, the situation has become increasingly dire. Reports indicate that patients are being treated in cramped conditions, often lying on trolleys in crowded corridors. Photographs from the facility depict patients closely packed together, struggling to find space for basic comfort and support.

UHL’s communications department issued an urgent advisory, urging the public to consider alternative healthcare options before visiting the ED. “The Emergency Department is for patients with life-threatening emergencies,” the hospital stated, emphasizing that individuals with less urgent health issues may face prolonged wait times.

The hospital has prioritized care for the “sickest, most seriously injured, and frailest patients,” as the strain on resources grows. The statement released by UHL highlighted the increasing pressure on its services, noting that nearly half of the patients seeking care were not referred by their GP.

To mitigate the overwhelming demand, UHL has recommended alternative healthcare services. These options include local pharmacies, family doctors, walk-in injury clinics, and medical assessment units. Specifically, the Ennis, Nenagh, and St John’s Hospital Injury Units offer a walk-in service from 8:00 to 20:00 for non-life-threatening injuries.

For those in need of urgent advice or treatment, the Health Service Executive (HSE) has provided contact numbers for the injury units:
– Ennis Injury Unit: 065 686 3121
– Nenagh Injury Unit: 067 423 11
– St John’s Injury Unit: 061 462 132

In its statement, UHL expressed regret for the long wait times experienced by patients, assuring that staff are making every effort to provide the best possible care. The hospital continues to monitor the situation closely and will issue updates as necessary.

As the challenges persist, the community remains hopeful for improvements in the healthcare system, particularly as UHL navigates the complexities of patient care in an increasingly demanding environment.