Over 60 children were left waiting on trolleys this month as the healthcare crisis continues in Ireland.
New figures highlight the overwhelming need for more hospital beds after 64 children were left waiting overnight for a space in the hospital.
The concerning figures were released by the INMO in a bid to raise awareness about the current healthcare crisis. Medical professionals are reportedly concerned as children have only just returned to school. They expect hospital admissions to rise especially ahead of flu season.
They’re also concerned about the number of children that will likely be admitted with RSV and other respiratory conditions in the winter months. Cases often spike in the colder months, but doctors are worried about overcrowding.
Speaking about the rise in numbers, General Secretary Phil Ni Sheaghdha said:
“The rising number of children under the age of sixteen on trolleys is becoming a matter of huge concern for our members.
“Over 64 children have been on trolleys so far this month, with schools only back in earnest in the last week. Parents are sending their children to already overcrowded hospitals as a last resort as care options are not available in the community.”
Ni Sheaghdha said the overcrowding issues are not acceptable and need to be addressed.
“It is unacceptable that we are seeing such high levels of overcrowding before the usual onslaught of winter viruses and respiratory illnesses.”
Have you and your family been affected by the current issues in our hospitals?
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