Extra clinics aim to reduce neurology waiting lists at UHG
CLINICS will be held at University Hospital Galway at weekends in a bid to reduce a neurology outpatient waiting list of almost 3,000.
UHG will began the evening clinics on Saturday (May 9) and have run them again this weekend to facilitate those waiting the longest period of time for an outpatient appointment.
The HSE have told The Tuam Herald that they are set to carry out a review of neurology services in the West and North West region.
As well as weekend evening clinics, UHG will host NTPF (National Treatment Purchase Fund) funded clinics to try and reduce the length of time neurology patients are left waiting for outpatient appointments.
A recent report from the Neurological Alliance of Ireland (NAI) stated there were 2,975 people on the neurology outpatient waiting list at UHG. The report also identified staffing gaps in neurological care at the hospital, with no dedicated physiotherapy, occupational therapist, speech and language, or dietetics.
The HSE have said there is a 0.5 WTE (whole-time equivalent) occupational therapist in Galway University Hospitals supporting the inpatient and outpatient service, and one physiotherapist who covers neurological care as well as other areas.
“There is 0.5 WTE senior speech and language therapist post also supporting the neurology service. Dietetics supports the inpatient, there is no dedicated dietitian for the service specifically,” said a spokesperson for the HSE.
The NAI report determined that there are less than ten consultant neurologists for the West-North West region, with a figure of 14.5 recommended.
“There are currently six WTE consultant neurologists in post. A further consultant neurologist is scheduled to commence on the 11th of May 2026, which will bring the total number to seven WTE consultant neurologists at Galway University Hospitals,” said the HSE spokesperson.
“A new neurologist and clinical nurse specialist were recently commenced to both LUH and MUH along with a registrar in Letterkenny.
“To augment this and in line with national and regional strategy, a review of neurology services for the West and North West will be undertaken by the Medicine Network of Care, as part of this review additional posts will be recommended as a priority.”
A new Community Neuro Rehabilitation Team (CNRT) has also been set up in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon to work with adults over the age of 18 in the community who require neurological care. The HSE are finalising the recruitment process for this CNRT.