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Healthcare Updates: Key Developments in Ireland and the UK

Ireland

National Children's Hospital Nears Completion
The long-awaited National Children's Hospital is now expected to open to patients in 2026, following significant delays and budget overruns. Initially slated for completion in 2020, the total cost has now surpassed €2.2 billion.

Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill has confirmed that the hospital will be completed by June 2025, followed by a nine-month commissioning phase to ensure operating theatres and critical areas are properly fitted. Given the challenges of winter healthcare demands, the government aims for a 2026 opening.

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Trinity College Dublin Leads Pharmacy Reform Research
Trinity College Dublin has launched a groundbreaking research initiative aimed at modernizing pharmacy practice in Ireland. The study will focus on expanding the role of pharmacists in patient care, improving medication management, and integrating new technologies to enhance service delivery. Findings from this research are expected to shape future healthcare policies and pharmacy education.

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Kildare Pharmacy Honoured for Community Contribution
A local Kildare business has been recognised with a prestigious Community Champion Award for its dedication to public health and exceptional pharmacy services. The award highlights the vital role pharmacies play in supporting healthcare at a community level.

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United Kingdom

Pharmacy Staff Struggle with Mental Health Amid Medicine Shortages
A recent survey has revealed that over half of UK pharmacy staff are facing mental health challenges due to ongoing medicine shortages. The strain of managing stock issues, coupled with patient frustration, has significantly impacted workplace morale. Industry leaders are calling for urgent reforms to stabilise medicine supplies and better support pharmacists.

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Pharmacists Oppose Proposed Fee Increases
The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) has proposed increasing pharmacy registration fees, sparking widespread criticism. Pharmacists argue that the fee hikes are unjustified, especially in light of financial pressures already affecting the industry. Many are urging the GPhC to reduce internal costs rather than passing expenses onto practitioners.

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Paydens Pharmacy Introduces Free Alcohol Health Checks
In an effort to promote public health, Paydens Pharmacy has launched a free "Drinking Check" service across the South East of England. Developed in partnership with Drinkaware, the service allows individuals to assess their alcohol consumption with guidance from pharmacists. This initiative is part of a broader push to expand pharmacies' role in preventive healthcare.

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Nursing & General Practice

Public Health Nurse Shortage Impacting Child Health Checks
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has reported a decline in public health nurses since 2019, leading to delays in vital child development checks. This shortage raises concerns about early childhood health interventions and the overall strain on community healthcare services.

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Rural Healthcare Crisis: Tory Island Without a Nurse
Residents of Tory Island, a remote community off the coast of Donegal, are facing a healthcare crisis due to the lack of a permanent nurse. Emergency medical services must now be dispatched from the mainland, leading to longer response times and increased health risks for island residents.

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Low Fertility Awareness Among Young People in Ireland
A recent study has shown that young people in Ireland have a limited understanding of fertility and reproductive health. Experts are calling for improved education initiatives to help individuals make informed family-planning decisions.

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Ukrainian Doctors Struggling to Work in Ireland
Despite a pressing need for more healthcare professionals, Ukrainian doctors in Ireland report difficulties in securing employment. Many struggle with complex accreditation processes and a lack of clear pathways for integrating into the Irish healthcare system.

Read more here


From major hospital investments to workforce shortages and pharmacy reform, the healthcare landscape in Ireland and the UK is undergoing significant change. Clarity Locums remains committed to supporting healthcare professionals through these evolving challenges by providing access to locum opportunities and industry insights.

Stay informed, stay prepared, and continue making a difference in healthcare.

 

Posted on 24 February 2025 by Anthony O'Neill MPSI
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Anthony O'Neill MPSI

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