Ophthalmology services in Tipperary are in crisis, causing huge hardship for families

A public representative has hit out at the lack of HSE ophthalmology services currently in south  Tipperary since the retirement of Dr Hillary last year.

Cllr John O’Heney said the matter was deeply concerning and it was a growing source of major frustration.

“It is simply unacceptable that children and families are being left without access to essential eye care services in our area. Since August of last year, parents have been left with no choice but to seek private alternatives, which come at an enormous financial burden. One parent recently stated that they had to pay over €400 for an eye test and glasses for their child, with another appointment scheduled in three months. This should not be happening. No family should have to shoulder these costs because of the HSE’s failure to fill a vital post,” said Cllr O’ Heney.

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The issue, he said, meant referrals from public health nurses conducting developmental checks were now creating a backlog that would only get worse.

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“This is a crisis that cannot be ignored. Early detection and treatment of vision problems are crucial for a child’s development and education, yet the system is failing them,” he said.
He called on the HSE to prioritise the recruitment of a new ophthalmologist, and ensure that families in south Tipperary have access to the services they deserve.