People with flu and other respiratory illnesses are set to get treatment in enhanced facilities at Portlaoise hospital with confirmation that part of the expanded Emergency Department (A&E / ED) is now operational.
The HSE confirmed to the Leinster Express / Laois Live that phased commissioning of the new €16m wing to the unit – which faced closure a decade ago – began in mid-December. This followed a meeting between the HSE and contractors to determine which part of the facility could be put into use.
Construction work was due to be completed at the end of June this year, with equipping to be completed by the end of 2025. the new phased opening was decided upon at a meeting with contractors on Monday, December 15.
The HSE outlined the current status of the progress and the services provided.
“Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise has completed the first of a two-phase development to their ED service to improve adult and paediatric emergency isolation care, promoting safer and more efficient care for patients. MORE BELOW PHOTO.
“Phase one, now fully operational as December 16th, 2024, adds new adult isolation rooms to strengthen the hospital’s response to flu and other isolation needs.
“Phase two, focusing on paediatric emergency enhancements, is on track to open in the first quarter of 2026,” said the HSE.
The HSE previously allocated €16.11 million to the development, which has been built on a small plot that served as the former ED entrance. The project includes a ground-floor ED extension, including five new single treatment rooms, a resuscitation room, a family room and auxiliary facilities.
Regarding completion within budget, the HSE also provided an update.
“The project remains within agreed timelines and the HSE’s annual financial planning process,” it said.
the construction work has also involved the addition of a first-floor ED extension, including treatment facilities for five paediatric patients, a resuscitation room, a triage room and auxiliary facilities.
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