KINSALE Community Hospital needs more investment to increase the facility’s bed capacity to 100 and improve both in and outpatient services, according to a West Cork Minister, writes Kieran O’Mahony.

Minister for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan said the hospital needs more options to care for both in and outpatients to ease pressure on staff and patients as the regions populations grows.

The hospital can currently accommodate up to 40 residents for short stay convalescence or respite care as well as long-term
care options.

‘The HSE owns two acres next the hospital which would be perfect for an extension to accommodate extra beds,’ said Minister O’Sullivan.

‘Kinsale Community Hospital is an amazing asset to the Kinsale hinterlands. The care patients get is extraordinary and the staff are incredibly hard working and dedicated. But the hospital needs more beds, acute beds and kite beds for older people.’

In April, €160,000 was secured for the refurbishment and extension of the 40 bed older persons nursing unit to significantly enhance the care and comfort for senior citizens staying there. The hospital also facilitates outpatient appointments for patients with a consultant geriatrician who attends the hospital each month.

‘I want to see that number expanded to ensure Kinsale Community Hospital’s ability to provide its high standards of care to the people in and around Kinsale for years to come.’