Over 50,000 patients attend medical assessment units in Cork hospitals

More than 50,000 people have attended medical assessment units (MAUs) in Cork since 2022.

Figures provided to The Echo by HSE South West show that 52,308 patients have attended MAUs at Bantry General Hospital, Cork University Hospital (CUH), Mercy University Hospital (MUH), and Mallow General Hospital over the last three years.

The MAU with the highest number of attendances is Bantry General Hospital, with a total of 16,300 patients recorded between 2022 and so far in 2025, followed by the unit at CUH which saw 15,700 patients during the same timeframe, the unit at Mallow General Hospital which saw 15,194 patients, and the MUH unit which saw 5,114 patients.

RAPID

A spokesperson for HSE South West said MAUs provide patients with “rapid assessment, diagnosis, and initial treatment for acute medical conditions”, with the number of patients recorded in the four centres representing “the continued demand for rapid medical assessment services across Cork hospitals”.

Fine Gael Cork North West TD John Paul O’Shea said the figures highlight the critical role played by MAUs in the city and county in providing “timely and effective care for patients across North Cork and beyond”.

“The consistent year-on-year increase in attendances demonstrates both the demand for and confidence in medical assessment units,” said Mr O’Shea. “MAUs help to alleviate pressure on emergency departments in Cork city by offering patients rapid access to diagnostic and treatment services closer to home.

“Continued investment in facilities like this is essential to support our hospital network and to ensure people can receive high-quality care locally.”