Connolly Hospital’s urgent care for kids changing to appointment only

Connolly Hospital is changing its children's urgent care clinic to an appointment-based system.

The move has been met with major backlash from parents. One mum told HerFamily that the stress of trying to get an appointment is taking its toll on parents. They said, "This unit has been used when you can’t get a GP. "Now it’s just another place you can’t get an appointment, forcing you to go to emergency departments in children’s hospitals already under severe pressure." "Children’s healthcare is disgraceful and this just seems like a step backwards." CHI issued a statement following the controversial decision; "Children’s Health Ireland walk-in Urgent Care Centre providing quick access care for children has changed to a same-day appointment service. "This change aims to support children and families through ensuring the right patients receive the right care in the right place and at the right time." 120-130 patients attend the clinic daily. The high number of patients attending the clinic has caused extreme overcrowding, as well as long waiting times.

"This is unmanageable for both families and staff. It also puts pressure on patient safety."

To help cope with these issues, the team has decided to introduce a digital swift queue appointment booking process. Families can access the booking system on the CHI at Connolly website. CHI at Connolly urgent care service treats children with minor injuries such as fractures, sprains, minor burns, and small cuts and illnesses such as vomiting, diarrhoea and mild asthma. Appointments can be made at short notice depending on availability on the day. Dr Ike Okafor, Paediatric Executive Lead and Clinical Director of CHI at Connolly stated: “We acknowledge this is a change for families but our aim is to see the right patient with the right care in the right place at the right time. They hope the change will facilitate a better patient experience. It will also help reduce the risk of inappropriate clinical attendance. CHI continue to offer healthcare access for thousands of children at CHI at Connolly in Blanchardstown and a same-day appointment service will support families with timely service and allow staff to manage minor injuries and minor illnesses in a safe environment.