Bantry hospital opens €8m endoscopy unit

A new €8m endoscopy unit at Bantry General Hospital was officially opened by health minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill yesterday.

The new unit has two procedure rooms, six recovery bays, a discharge lounge, and a reception area.

“This new purpose-built unit will lead to an increase in endoscopy activity undertaken at Bantry General Hospital, and will be integral to tackling endoscopy waiting lists across the HSE South West region,” said Ms Carroll MacNeill.

“This investment of more than €8m benefits not just the people of West Cork, but also the wider region.”

Bantry General Hospital general manager Carole Croke said: “This new, modern, patient-centred facility is a significant development for the hospital. The development is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of our exceptional team.

“The supportive, professional environment here in Bantry has been key to bringing this project to life, and we look forward to continuing to deliver safe, high-quality care in this state-of-the-art facility.”

The new unit will allow Bantry General Hospital to double its endoscopy activity. It can carry out a range of endoscopy services including colonoscopy, gastroscopy, proctoscopy, and sigmoidoscopy. It can conduct both diagnostic and therapeutic services.

Referrals typically come electronically from community services, particularly GPs, and are triaged by the clinical team based on symptoms.

HSE South West regional executive officer Andy Phillips also welcomed the development.

“This is a significant investment made by the State,” said Dr Phillips.

“My responsibility is to now ensure that we use this modern, cutting-edge facility with its new technology to the maximum of its capacity.

“To do this, we will need to recruit a new team and offer this service to the entire population of Cork and Kerry.

“Our communities are going to increase by 10%-15% over the next 20 years, and there is very significant growth in demand, so this is a vital facility to contribute to providing access within the Sláintecare requirements.”