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Pictured are Graham Lynch, Radiographer; Des Mulligan, Head of Older Peoples Services, HSE Galway, Mayo & Roscommon; Mary Warde, Integrated Healthcare Manager for Mayo; and Patricia Maguire, Director of Nursing, Dalton Community Nursing Unit, Claremorris.
## Mobile X-ray Service Offers Convenient Access to Care for Older Adults
Since December 2023, a nationwide rapid response, community-based mobile X-ray service has been available to older adults in residential care, nursing homes and hospices. Partnering with the HSE, Mobile Medical Diagnostics rolled out this vital service, expanding on a successful pilot program initiated in 2022.
The service brings X-ray examinations directly to patients, eliminating the need for travel and reducing stress. A radiographer visits the patient’s care facility or home and conducts the required X-rays, including chest, hip/pelvis, knee, wrist, and shoulder X-rays. The consulting radiologist sends a comprehensive report back to the referring doctor within four hours, allowing for timely treatment.
**Benefits of the Mobile X-ray Service**
* **Convenience:** Patients and residents receive X-ray examinations in the comfort of their own environments.
* **Reduced Hospital Transfers:** The service aims to avoid unnecessary hospital transfers by providing prompt and convenient care. In fact, 95% of patients have avoided a hospital transfer through the use of this service.
* **Timely Treatment:** Rapid turnaround times for radiology reports allow for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
* **Accessibility:** This service is accessible to residents and patients without a medical card.
**Results Speak for Themselves**
From December 2023 to October 2024, over 39 residential care facilities in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon have utilized the mobile X-ray service. Over 640 patients have benefited