Mercy Hospital announces plan for 72-bed extension as part of five year strategy

A new extension with 72 bedspaces and moving the emergency department are among the plans announced as part of the Mercy University Hospital (MUH)’s strategic plan for 2025-2030, which was launched this morning.

The strategy, entitled "Maintaining and Improving the Health and Wellbeing of those we Serve," was officially launched by Dr Colm Henry, chief clinical officer of the Health Service Executive (HSE).

In terms of capital developments, the five-year plan envisages the construction of new facilities, as well as developing existing ones.

This includes a new extension comprising 72 beds, which will enable the relocation and expansion of the emergency department to provide greater capacity and also increase the number of beds in ICU/HDU.

Also included in the strategy are the expansion of day surgery facilities to reduce patient stay and improve bed occupancy, increasing diagnostic capacity by expanding the Radiology Department and the continued development of an expanded theatre complex to include new theatres including state of the art Robotic Theatres.

The plan also includes a commitment to delivering better digital services, including the introduction of Electronic Prescribing and the adoption of the Electronic Healthcare Record, in line with national policy.

Margaret McKiernan, the Mercy’s CEO, said: “Our new strategic plan reflects Mercy University Hospital’s unwavering commitment to putting patients first and striving for excellence in everything we do.

“We have carefully considered our role in healthcare provision to the city and wider region, collaborating with our regional partners to continue to advocate for our patients through the delivery of exceptional evidence-based patient care, and also supporting the development of the next generation of healthcare professionals in Ireland.” Key initiatives will be implemented across four strategic areas: People, Continuous Operational Improvement, Sustainability, and Technology & Partnership.

The strategy sets out goals including developing a partnership approach to foster team spirit and enhance job satisfaction for staff, working towards 2050 Net Zero targets and maintaining high standards in all aspects of the organisation's services.

Another goal of the plan is implementing necessary improvement plans based on best practice, innovative technology, knowledge, and skill, including a “Hospital without Walls” approach, meaning extending medical services beyond the physical hospital setting.