Tipperary TD requests that town's Minor Injury Unit be listed as an alternative to ED

Tipperary Sinn Fein TD Martin Browne has requested that the option of attending Cashel Minor Injuries Unit is added to the list of alternatives to Emergency Department presentations at Tipperary University Hospital at times of significant pressure.

“It is my belief that minor injury units can play a considerable role in taking some of the pressure off Emergency Departments.

“However, while there is some advertising of the minor injuries unit in Cashel, it is left out of the list of alternatives contained within media statements issued by Tipperary University Hospital when its Emergency Department is experiencing high numbers of presentations.

“While I understand that the hospital provides a minor injury service, I believe that the Cashel unit still has a potentially important role to play here.

“More prominence of this medical facility which exists within the Cashel community, would, in my view, make more people aware and increase the number of people who might consider it as an option ahead of the Emergency Department.

“That being said, it is important to note that the Minor Injuries Unit is only suitable for certain medical issues, and does not treat children under the age of five.

“The role of community care in taking pressure off our acute hospitals is significant. Given the pressure hospitals are currently experiencing, to know the services in your locality may be more convenient for people, and may have the knock-on effect of assisting acute hospitals.

“I have raised brought this to the attention of TUH, and have been told that in future statements the Minor Injuries in Cashel will be included as an option for those that require the service,” said Deputy Browne.