Ballyshannon Community Hospital Expands Short Stay Beds by Christmas

Health authorities aim to expand the capacity of Ballyshannon Community Hospital by adding 10 more short stay beds before Christmas. This initiative comes as part of ongoing efforts to alleviate overcrowding at nearby hospitals, particularly Sligo University Hospital. The hospital currently operates 20 short stay beds, but only half are in use, prompting a recruitment push to staff the additional beds.

The announcement was made by John Fitzmaurice, Integrated Healthcare Area Manager with the Health Service Executive (HSE), during a recent Regional Health Forum meeting. The discussion followed a query from Marie Casserly, an Independent Councillor from Sligo, regarding the short stay facilities and the significant overcrowding issues at Sligo University Hospital.

Fitzmaurice confirmed that there is a plan to have the additional beds operational by December 18, 2024. “Ten of the 20 are opened and we are pushing on the other 10,” he stated. Despite the recruitment challenges, particularly in hiring multitask attendants, he emphasized that efforts are underway to resolve staffing shortages.

The HSE is aware of the ongoing overcrowding at Sligo University Hospital, which has been a concern for the community. Fitzmaurice noted a 6% reduction in the number of patients waiting on trolleys, despite a 5% increase in overall attendance and a 2% rise in admissions. “There is a concerted effort to reduce the number of people waiting on trolleys,” he said, highlighting the ongoing focus on patient flow management.

In response to Councillor Casserly’s inquiry, the HSE outlined their strategy to improve the situation. This includes an emphasis on weekend discharges and the increased presence of senior decision-makers, which has positively impacted patient flow. Additionally, the hospital opened 26 more acute medical beds in January 2025, further enhancing capacity.

Looking ahead, Fitzmaurice mentioned plans to open an additional four short stay beds at St. Patrick’s Hospital in Carrick-on-Shannon. However, he clarified that there are currently no plans for a minor injuries unit in Sligo.

The HSE indicated that the rollout of the short stay beds at Ballyshannon is part of a broader strategy to maximize occupancy in community hospitals, contingent upon successful recruitment efforts. As the recruitment drive progresses, health officials are optimistic about meeting the demand for additional services in the region.