HSE Midland Area news: May 2005

Item Type Report

Authors Health Service Executive (HSE) Midland Area

Rights HSE Midland Area

Download date 27/09/2021 09:47:02

Link to Item http://hdl.handle.net/10147/43443

Find this and similar works at - http://www.lenus.ie/hse MAY 2005 MINISTER FOR FINANCE OFFICIALLY OPENS NEW COMMUNITY CARE CENTRE IN BIRR

Mr Brian Cowen TD, Minister for Finance, officially opened necessary. We all recognise, the state of the art Community Care Centre in Birr. Speaking however, that as people move at the ceremony, Minister Cowen said the new facilities were into their twilight years, some already enhancing the quality of service for residents and may need help and support in those accessing community care services. caring for themselves if their health deteriorates or their “The Birr Community Care service here and the whole social circumstances warrant Centre is a building of the team based here will cover the it. highest standard which full range of services from “In keeping with the wishes of comprises a residential care medical and nursing to the vast majority of people, the unit of 90 beds arranged into physiotherapists, social cornerstone of our health and three modules, in addition to a workers, occupational social policy in relation to the Rehabilitation Department, a therapists and other associated care of older people is care in Day Care Centre and a Health health professionals. the community, with the overall Centre. The project, including “Nowadays, and due in no aim being to support older fees, construction, equipment small part to advances made people in dignity to live in their and other costs was in the right across the range of own community for as long as region of d23 million and, with health care, older people are possible. my Minister for Finance hat on, thankfully living longer, more I am delighted to say that it active and healthier lives. At Obviously, when this is no was completed on programme the turn of the century, it would longer possible, it is important and within budget. have been unusual to have a that older people have access “The approach taken to life expectancy beyond 65 to care, both short-stay and provide a combination of years of age. Today most of us residential, whether it be in a complementary services on can expect to live well into our general hospital for an acute this site is one that I believe will 70’s, and beyond. admission or in a community genuinely enhance the “The positive contribution of care centre such as this. “Whether young or old, one of community spirit in the town our older citizens to Irish life in Mr. Brian Cowen T.D. cuts the ribbon at the official opening of the our most basic needs, is and the architectural design for all its facets over the years new Community Care Centre in Birr. the centre has cleverly cannot, and must not be contact with others in our day- integrated the requirements of underestimated. The growth in to-day lives. Another and recreational services. District Hospital. the day was a very special one the key strands of community their number as a proportion of important function of the care “Before I conclude I would like In concluding, Minister Cowen for the residents of the healthcare under one roof. the population, however, centre here in Birr is to offer an to acknowledge the role played said that the Community Care Community Nursing Unit, and “I was pleased to note in equally presents both opportunity for older people in by the Director of Nursing, Kay Centre represents the most for the staff of both the Nursing particular that while the main challenges and opportunities the area to come and meet with Kennedy, her staff and her significant investment ever in Unit and the Community Care focus of the Rehabilitation to all of us. We are all aware their peers and also to provide predecessors in recent years, Birr, and would be a credit to Centre. department will be for that the first choice for older them with a focus for social who deserve great credit for Irish health services with “The Staff in Birr have always individuals over 65, it will also people is to remain living at interaction. Older people can their efforts to deliver such a clients receiving a service provided excellent care and provide such services for other home for as long as possible also avail of practical facilities high quality service for the “second to none”. high quality services to the age groups. Community with the support of their such as meals, bath/shower older residents of Birr and the Speaking on behalf of the HSE people of Birr and surrounding groups are also involved with families and community facilities, medical room, surrounding area, despite the Midland Area, Assistant Chief area, even when the facilities the Day Centre aspect of the support services, where hairdressing and other health physical limitations often Officer Community Services, fell short of what we see here placed upon them in the old Ms Breda Crehan-Roche said today.” AWARDS PROMOTING INNOVATION AND QUALITY LAUNCHED Staff of the HSE Midland Area are being principles panel and thereafter at national workshops and proposals by June 25th. Abstracts for oral and invited to submit entries for two Award Equality promoting initiatives – innovations that set up displays at awards ceremony. poster presentations are also being called for. programmes - The 2005 Health Services have improved services for minority groups of The winner will be announced at an Awards For further information about the awards, Innovation Awards, and the Quality in clients or employees Ceremony in Dublin Castle on 18th October by contact [email protected]. The Awards Healthcare Awards, run by the ISQSH. There is a winner and project for special Mary Harney TD, Tánaiste and Minister for ceremony itself is to take place in late The Innovation Awards were developed in 2003 mention in each category and one overall Health and Children. September. by the former Eastern Regional Health winner who receives the perpetual trophy. The For further information, or to download an Authority and are national for the first time this Derek Dockery Popular Choice Award will be Expression of Interest form, staff can log on to year. The Award scheme was established in awarded to the most popular entrant, as voted www.erha.healthnet.ie and email entries to memory of the late Derek Dockery who, in his by other entrants. [email protected]. Alternatively, long career in the Irish health service, was a The judging criteria involves people can make contact by post to Jackie champion of quality and excellence. • Evidence of strong research Irving, Corporate Services HSE Eastern The awards are designed to reward innovation and assessment of feasibility Region, Mill Lane, Palmerstown, Dublin 20 or in the health services, and are sponsored by • Effective leadership telephone 01 620 1809. the Health Service National Partnership Forum. • Strong planning and well coordinated The Quality in Healthcare Awards aim to Among the stated aims of the Awards are to implementation recognise innovation, identify best practice, encourage continual improvement of treatment, • Effective management promote sharing of best practice, reward and care and rehabilitation services; encourage a • Evaluation and improvement to meet motivate, foster knowledge generation and partnership approach to development of client stakeholder needs support a multi-disciplinary approach. centred services; and recognise those who • Evidence of success and the ability to Entries are requested in the following streams: have developed and implemented innovations sustain results Innovation in the quality of patient safety that are sustainable examples for improving • Potential for replication Innovation in improving the quality of the patient health outcomes, support and independence. The closing date for expressions of interest is journey There are four entry categories: May 27th. The next step will involve the judging Innovation in the utilisation of information tools Community: innovations to promote health panel asking a small number of applicants to Innovation in the promotion of patient principals, ie equity, people-centredness, complete the application form. From this, participation in healthcare quality and accountability; finalists will be selected. Finalists will be Innovation in health service staff development Health Facilities: innovations to promote health required to present their project of the judging Entrants are requested to submit abstract

1 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News

Midland OT Wins HSE Midland Area National Award Assessment Commended Within three weeks (following the programme HSE Midland Area Staff have been praised Managers. Quality of Work Life Projects three times a week for 30 minutes), the nationally and locally for their response to the Manager, Complaints Managers. Security schoolteachers reported remarkable request by the HSA to assess risks in A&E units. Manager, Infection Control contributed to the improvement in handwriting, self-esteem and The requirement that risk assessments are process. foundation skills. conducted routinely is a key component of the Local managers immediately implemented As word of the success of the project in Scoil Midland Area’s “Healthcare Risk Management those measures that were instantly Bhride spread, Linda has been able to introduce Policy incorporating the Corporate Safety recognisable and easily put in place. For it in other schools. Statement” and associated Guidelines. hazards that were not immediately Linda is the inaugural winner of this annual Because of this, local medical, nursing and manageable, action plans have been award. She shared the award with the teaching management personnel supported by developed to – where possible – remove the support staff in the school who conducted the Healthcare Risk Management personnel had risk, and where this is impossible, reduce the programme under her guidance, Christine already conducted much of the required risk risk satisfactorily. Coughlan and Serena Young.Making the assessment work even before they received Complete details of the findings of this Risk presentation, Helen McGuigan (a member of the the request to do so by the HSA in February. Assessment process are documented in the Linda Welfore Pictured with the Ann Beckett Ann Beckett Memorial Award Committee), A multidisciplinary group supported by risk Safety Statements in each of the A&E Departments. Memorial Award congratulated Linda for her outstanding project. managers and including A&E consultants, The final report was sent to the HSA on the Linda Welford, Senior Occupational Therapist The “Otters” Programme, she said, nurses, hospital managers, bed managers, 24th February. The response and feedback to with the HSE Midland Area, was presented with demonstrated the life-enhancing results of medical and surgical consultants, and the report – both national and local - has been the Ann Beckett Memorial Award at the recent therapeutic activities that involve and empower community services representatives worked extremely positive and we would like to take Association of Occupational Therapists in clients, and as such was exactly the type of on providing the response to the HSA. this opportunity to thank and commend all Ireland conference in Letterkenny. intervention that the Association, through Ann Occupation Health Service, Clinical Audit, those staff that participated magnificently in The Award judged recent projects undertaken Beckett’s Memorial Award, wished to celebrate. Fire Prevention and Safety, Accreditation the process. by OT’s which are of a practical nature and Ann Beckett was one of the first Occupational which involve and empower clients. Therapists in Ireland. Linda Welford, as part of her work as a She was devoted to people, nature, music, and paediatric occupational therapist in the Midland her profession. Ann was an outstanding Members of the A&E Risk Health Board Area, developed a project called Occupational Therapist who through her work Assessment Team at the the “Otters” Programme. This is a joint initiative enriched many lives by her humanity, humour, Midland Regional between the paediatric occupational therapy and her practical approach to life, especially her Hospital at Portlaoise service and staff in Scoil Bhride, Portlaoise. It own disability. from L to R: combines a sensory-motor training circuit with a The purpose of the award is to celebrate Ann’s Sheila Burke CNM1, Ann perceptual pre-handwriting scheme. Children life and her contribution to occupational therapy Kelly, Assistant Director with Developmental Coordination Difficulties in Ireland, and to show-case practical of Nursing, Regional A/E (DCD), irrespective of age, are grouped together interventions being made by O.T.s today. Unit Administration, to go through a circuit of “exercises” regularly. The Ann Beckett Memorial Award is a Norma Buckley CNM2, The objective is to avoid medical dependency, commissioned bronze sculpture showing a flight Eugene Hamm (Standing) and to provide the children with peer group of swallows taking off from a granite rock. The Attendant/Aide A&E support, insight into their condition, and faith in piece is called “Summer”, and was created by Portlaoise, Dr Ghulam their ability to learn and function with DCD. Ian Pollock. A&E Consultant. Ambulance Service Skills for Changing Health Rapid Response Behaviour

A two-day workshop for all health professionals working to promote healthy behaviours with Vehicle Unit clients is being organised for HSE Midland Area Staff. The Rationale for the Workshop is that people are most receptive to health information when accessing health services. This places health professionals in the unique position of being able to promote healthy lifestyle behaviours.

The training will equip staff with the skills and strategies to increase a clients motivation to change their lifestyles or any behaviour. It focuses on motivational interviewing techniques for working with all clients but particularly those who are resistant to change. Discussions and activities will largely address the lifestyle topics of physical activity, healthy eating, stress management and smoking cessation.

The course is specifically designed for employees of the health service who communicate and meet with the public on a regular basis. This includes medical professionals, allied health professional and administrative staff. Workshops can also be delivered to entire departments where numbers are sufficient.

Advising and motivating clients to adopt a change in behaviour can be a long, tiring and frustrating process for staff. Using effective motivational strategies can reduce these feelings of frustration and make your efforts at trying to promote healthy behaviours more worthwhile.

Location Time Venue Date No. of Places Tullamore, 09:30-17:00 Bury Quay, Sept 6th + 7th 20 places Pictured with the new vehicles are from l to r: Vincent Kelly, Ivan O’Grady, Damian Scally, Keith Co. Offaly Tullamore (Tue/Wed) Hayes, Paddy Mooney, John Bulfin, Pat O’Dowd, Bernie Condron, Robert Morton, Noel Rigney, George McDermott and Tommy Maguire. Longford 09:30-17:00 Temperance Hall Oct 4th + 5th Longford Town (Tue/Wed) 20 places The Ambulance Service as part of the HSE’s staff training. Mullingar, primary response to life threatening The unit commenced operation on the 21st Co.Westmeath 09:30-17:00 Room 9, St. Lomans Oct 25th + 26th emergencies has developed a Rapid February 2005 last and has to date, Hospital,Mullingar (Tue/Wed) 20 places Response Vehicle (R.R.V.) Team to respond responded to emergency calls as well as efficiently and effectively to life threatening improving interaction with Primary Care emergencies in outlying areas of the region. providers. The RRV unit will patrol the To reserve your place please contact: The development of the R.R.V. Team has Laois/Offaly and Longford/Westmeath areas required significant investment in two on a daily basis and will provide a highly Barry Lambe in the Health Promotion Service at 0506-57800 or at specially adapted vehicles, equipment, and visible presence in the community. [email protected]

2 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News Tánaiste announces Members of the HSE Midland Area Board of Interim Senior Management Health Information Team offered new positions and Quality Authority within the HSE: The Tánaiste and Minister programmes nationally and Prof. Muiris X Fitzgerald for Health & Children, Ms. overseeing health technology Dean, Faculty of Medicine, Reform Mary Harney TD, recently assessment. The Board of University College Dublin and announced the membership HIQA Consultant Respiratory and Briefs of the Board of the interim General Physician, Mr. Pat McGrath Health, Information and St.Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin The head office of the Chairman, Quality Authority (HIQA) National Health Service Interim HIQA & Chief Ms. Anne Geraghty The Board will be responsible Executive is Oak House, Executive, Project Speech and Language for preparing the Limetree Avenue, Millennium Management Group Therapy Services Manager, administrative and Park, Naas, Co. Kildare. Tel: Brothers of Charity, Galway organisational plans for the Dr. Ruth Barrington 045 880 4000 early establishment of the Chief Executive, Dr. Elizabeth Keane HIQA under primary Health Research Board Chairman, The HSE now has its own legislation. The Tánaiste National Cancer Registry website. The Site has details John Bulfin John Cregan added that the announcement Dr. Michael Barry of the HSE, information on “represents an important step Medical Director, Dr. Brian Meade careers, links to other sites, in the further development of a National Pharmacoeconomic General Practitioner electronic versions of high-quality, safe and effective Centre and Consultant Dr. Siobhán O’Halloran publications and the latest health care system which will Physician, Head of Nursing and Service, news updates. Log onto provide a better service for St. James’s Hospital, Dundalk Institute of www.hse.ie for more… patients.” Dublin Technology HIQA is being established in Dr. Dan Byrne An electronic version of the response to a key aim of the Chairman, Dr. David O’Hora Health Act 2004 is available National Health Strategy Irish Health Services Director, Southern Marketing, on the intranet – see Health which is to deliver high-quality Accreditation Board Advertising and Service Reform Programme, services based on evidence- Communications Agency under publications. supported best practice. Dr. Ian Callanan HIQA will be responsible for President, Ms. Dolores Quinn Community Care Areas can developing health information, Breda Crehan Roche Pat O’Dowd Irish Society for Quality Key Account Manager, now be referred to as promoting and implementing and Safety in Health Care Abbott Laboratories Community Services. John Bulfin: Hospital Network Manager Midland Area quality assurance John Cregan: Regional Director, Dublin/Mid-Leinster Region Breda Crehan Roche: RESPONDING TO CULTURAL DIVERSITY National Care Manager for Social Inclusion (PCCC) IN AN EMERGENCY Pat O’Dowd: Assistant Director PCCC (contracts) They are expected to take up “Positively Diverse”, a Multi-Lingual Emergency Phrase Book Developed their new positions in the near future.

The HSE Midland Area Ambulance Service has launched a new phrase book to assist E.M.T.s in communicating with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. The TELEPHONE NUMBER booklet is titled “Positively Diverse”, a Multi-Lingual Emergency Phrase Book. CHANGES

The Booklet was developed by the Ambulance A new telephone numbering system will be introduced in a Service with the support of Partnership and number of sites including acute hospital and health centres, St Barbara Ui Theighneáin, Irish Officer HSE Fintan’s, St Loman’s and Riada House in Portlaoise, Mullingar Midland Area. It has been issued to every and Tullamore and Central Office over the summer months. Emergency Medical Technician within the service and is included in the Induction Pack The advantages of the new system include free calls between for student E.M.T.s. HSE Midland Area sites, telephone numbers such as in hospital departments will be in sequence and every extension It is designed to facilitate communications with will have direct inward dial. patients/clients who do not speak English or have a disability. Its main features include a The changes will commence in Tullamore with a new language identification card, questions to help numbering system for the hospital, health Centre, Central with patient diagnosis and basic Office and Riada House. It is proposed to carry out this th communication methods for people with changeover on the weekend of 11 June. hearing / visual impairment. The main numbers 0506 21501 Hospital, 0506 21868 The booklet covers twenty-one important Central Office and 0506 41301 Health Centre will not be changing. questions in thirty-one different languages Pictured with the Multilingual Emergency Phrase Book, Positively Diverse, are including sign language, and is now in daily from l to r: Vincent Kelly, Operations Officer, HSE Midland Area Ambulance use. However, all direct inward dial numbers will change. A full Service, Oliver Smith, Partnership, Bairbre Uí Theighneáin, Irish officer, HSE directory of the new numbers will be placed on the Intranet Site Midland Area and Robert Morton, Chief Ambulance Officer, HSE Midland Area. Following discussions with other disciplines under the Contact Us section. throughout the Midland area, it is envisaged that this booklet will be rolled out to other areas For further information, please contact to alleviate the language barriers that exist. [email protected].

3 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News Workshop on National Framework for Complaints Handling held in HSE Midland Area

More than 100 people took part in a facilitated of perfection amongst patients and less workshop arranged by the Health Service tolerance of ‘mishaps and mistakes’. Executive Corporate Affairs Directorate in the Heritage Hotel, Portlaoise on Monday, 9th May Eilish McAuliffe, a Senior Lecturer on Health 2005. It was the second in a series of sessions Policy and Management at Trinity College, has of a consultative process by which a national been asked by the Department of Health and framework for handling complaints in the health Children to consult with all stakeholders and service is being developed. The group prepare a submission prior the the development comprised mainly of frontline staff and of the regulations on complaints handling. managers from each of the four HSE regions Ms McAuliffe said there would be a series of plus representatives from the voluntary workshops to which relevant stakeholders would hospitals and voluntary groups. be invited, and their input would be fed back to The day was a great success making a valuable the DOHC for consideration. contribution to the drafting of a final framework Ms McAuliffe said the main considerations for and policy. The workshop was developed in any complaints system would be that it is fair, partnership with the Health Services National equitable and responsive. Partnership Forum and Partnership facilitators assisted delegates in three workshops. Pictured at the HSE National Complaints Handling Workshop The day was chaired by Mary Culliton, who is From l to r: Rosalie Smith Lynch, Mary Culliton, Stephen McMahon, Director IPA, Breege Doherty, responsible for drafting the HSE National The first asked delegates to review what the Alistair Graham, Helen Franklin and Peter Healy. Complaints Framework. Other members of the HSE Areas currently ‘do well’ in handling committee include Dr Ian Callanan, President of complaints. The second workshop looked at • Support for frontline staff need to trust and system; they do not want Irish Society for Quality and Safety in what ‘we don’t do well’, and the final workshop • Improve accountability incomplete responses and while patients may Healthcare (ISQSH); John Dolan from the asked delegates for their suggestions on ‘What be accepting of delays, constant contact needs In addition to the workshops, delegates heard Disability Federation of Ireland; Breege Doherty, do we need to do to improve the experience for to be maintained while an issue is being from three speakers. Senior Executive Officer, HSE Midland Area; staff and for complainants’? resolved. Martin Devine, A/Chief Officer, Helen Franklin, Stephen McMahon, Director of the Irish Patient’s Other topics addressed by Mr McMahon were National Health Services Partnership Forum; The main points from each workshop were Association (IPA) gave a presentation on the the European Patient’s Charter, the role of Annette Fitzpatrick, Communications HSE listed so that all delegates could then vote on ‘Patient’s Perspective’. advocacy and the main work of the IPA. Midland Area; Peter Healy, Project Officer, the items they thought most accurately reflected Project Management Unit; Dara Purcell, HSE the current situation. Mr McMahon made the point that the majority of Alistair Graham and Eilish McAuliffe gave an South East; Rosalie Smith Lynch, Customer people who complain to the healthcare system update on the consultation process so far. The top five for each of the workshops were as have no interest or intention of litigation. Services Manager, HSE North East and follows: Mr Graham is a consultant who works with the Veronica Smollen, Assistant Staff Officer, HSE Do well “Patients want to know why it happened and HSE East Area on developing its framework and Midland Area. • Resolving complaints at a local level how it happened and to make sure it doesn’t policy on complaints handling – People Matter – • Accepting the patient’s right to complain happen to anyone else.” he said. Complaints Matter. • Having a procedure and information on how to deal with complaints He also made the point that the system should Mr Graham explained that People Matter – • Listening not be relying on complaints to improve the Complaints Matter was being used as a base • Responding positively to complaints and system, but should have robust quality and document for developing the national framework developing a ‘no blame’ culture safety systems in place. as it was a document already widely consulted Don’t do well on in the East. He outlined some of the main “Complaints procedures are only one element of • Training and support for staff points of the People Matter – Complaints Matter engagement with patients and their carers, but • Learning from past mistakes framework which included the pathway for they aware very necessary as they indicate • Having a standardised system complaints, roles and responsibilities in relation gaps in a quality system and provide an • Lacking in accountability to complaints handling and the aims of a opportunity for closure on any incidents that do • Communication national framework. occur,” he explained. Improve the experience for staff and Pictured at the HSE National Complaints complainants On designing a complaints system, Mr Mr Graham spoke about the development of a Handling Workshop in Portlaoise were from l to • Change the blame culture McMahon asked that a number of areas be culture of perfection in the west, which was r: Colm Dunne and Pat Lanagan, Health • Learn from past mistakes considered. Patients should know who to go to; making itself felt in Irish society. This Centre Portlaoise and Joe Martin, General • Support and training for staff they should be aware of their rights. Patients development, he said, leads to an expectation Manager, Acute Hospitals, HSE Midland Area Roll out of “Train the Trainers” Training Programme for the Mental Health Act 2001 Mental Health Commission-HSE Midlands Region

In preparation for enactment for the of June 2005. Progress continues to be made at a National involuntary patients and activity continues at remaining sections of the Mental Health level as the MHC continues to drive forward national level. It is hoped that the results of the Act 2001 including part two and other On completion of the four-day training course, the new legislation. census will help to predict the number of sections relating to the Mental Health trainers will be required to run training Interviews have concluded for both the both people that require Mental Health Tribunal. All Tribunal, the Mental Health Commission programmes in their own Mental Health Area chairperson and layperson for the Mental census responses are logged by the mental has recently commenced training between September –December 2005. Other Health Tribunals. health Commission and evaluated on an throughout the country. Trainers were key stake holders i.e. the Mental Health ongoing basis. Following the most recent workshop December nominated from individual disciplines in Tribunal Members, Consultant Psychiatrists 2004 for service providers, re consultation on ? the Mental Health Services nationally. and specific groups including Child Psychiatry A grant of 50,000 has been made available the statutory forms that will be in use when the by the Mental Health Commission to all health will have training programmes tailored to their The training of trainers is intended to provide Mental Health Act 2001 is fully implemented. areas to assist with the purchase of equipment own needs designed by and delivered by the all stakeholders with a clear understanding of The Commission has produced a final draft of or renovation facilities in which to hold a Mental mental health commission in the near future. the provisions of the Mental Health Act 2001 the forms comprised of colour coded forms, 18 Health Tribunal. and how it is intended to work. in number. The Mental Health Commission intends to When Part 2 of the Mental Health Act is Training programmes are being approached on develop and implement a quality framework for The Mental Health Commission has put in implemented all involuntary patients will be a multidisciplinary basis with nominees from Mental Health Services in Ireland. This place a computer system to record and monitor entitled to legal aid. At present the Mental the HSE Midland Region representing framework will provide the “road map” to involuntary admissions and Mental Health Health Commission is finalising a legal aid Disability Services, Social Work, Nursing, facilitate continuous improvement in the quality Tribunals. This system is called the System for scheme, which will set out the administrative Administration and Psychology. Training will be of mental health services. Involuntary Admissions and Tribunals (SIAT). arrangements for this additional support to a ongoing for trainers between May and the end The Commissions monthly census of person who has been involuntary admitted.

4 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News Medical Assessment Unit Opens at MRH Mullingar

The first Medical Assessment will be available for the patient Unit for an acute hospital in on his or her arrival. If there is the HSE Midland Area opened any query as to the suitability recently at the Midland of a proposed referral, the on- Regional Hospital at Mullingar. call Consultant Physician can make the final decision. The six-bedded Unit aims to improve efficiency and provide The referring GP must quality patient care for people complete an MAU referral with acute medical problems form, which can be faxed that are not immediately life- ahead to the Unit, or the threatening, but who may patient can bring it with them. require either in-patient Referral forms are available by admission or immediate contacting the MAU Ward specialist medical opinion. Clerk. Patients with immediate acute life-threatening conditions Patients with what would continue to be referred to A&E. normally be considered to have urgent OPD problems will Suitable patients are referred be considered on a case by directly to the Unit by their case basis. GPs, thus by-passing outpatient waiting lists. Referred patients may be Laboratory and other inpatient admitted or discharged and services can be fast-tracked, have required investigations and patients admitted as done on the same day or else required. arranged for a later time. Follow up arrangements are No walk in referrals are seen indicated on the MAU at the Unit as these continue Discharge Form, a copy of to be routed through Accident which is faxed to the referring and Emergency. GP as well as given to the patient. The unit opens from 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday, with “This is a new clinical service Pictured at the new Medical Assessment Unit at the Midland Regional Hospital at Mullingar are from l to r: (back) Dr Muzammel 4.00pm being the cut off time at the Midland Regional Habib, Medical Registrar, Kathleen Tuite Moore, Ward Clerk, Dr Sean Murphy, Consultant Physician and Medical Director of the for patients to be seen. Hospital at Mullingar. It has the Unit. (front) Mary Kate McCallion, Staff nurse, Martina O’Toole, staff nurse, Dr Shaffcat, SHO and Rosemary Kennan, CNM2. potential to contribute All proposed patient referrals positively to our collective General Hospital in Kilkenny. to the Medical Assessment desire to provide high quality Unit are first discussed by the and responsive patient care,” Reactions to the Unit have referring GP with the Medical said Dr Sean Murphy, the been extremely positive. To date, 60% of patients who Pharmacy Success Registrar of the Unit, Dr Unit’s Medical Director. Muzammel Habib via a arrive at the Unit have not had Û designated mobile phone. The Dr Murphy explained the to be admitted as an inpatient The Annual Conference of Ireland’ and ‘Using Global 3,500 may be used to fund Registrar then confirms if the operation of the unit is aligned at the hospital. the Hospital Pharmacists’ Standards to deliver a Secure the research. patient will be accepted to the to others operating around the Association, Ireland (HPAI) and Safe Pharmaceuticals Congratulations to Marie on Unit and ensures that space country, such as in the was held in Clontarf Castle Supply Chain’ her success. She will present recently. The workshop Professor Tim O'Brien, the findings of her project at topics included: Medicines Professor of Medicine NUIG the 2006 conference. Management Issues in the and UCHG gave the keynote The Pharmacy department, Diabetic Patient, Medicines speech-‘Prospects for Cell MRHT demonstrated their BULLYPROOF Information, and Joining the and Gene Therapy’ work with posters entered Critical Care Team: A Ms. Marie Philbin, Senior into the pharmacist poster To continue the successful roll out of the Bullyproof programme we Pharmacist’s Approach. Pharmacist MRHT won the competition while Michelle are looking to recruit additional facilitators. Presentations were also Dr. Jacques Servier Henshaw entered the given on ‘Developing a Research Award for her Pharmaceutical technician Aim: Staff are advised to discuss their application Hospital Pharmacy Practice project ‘Improving inpatient poster competition with her To promote dignity and respect in the with their managers and also to receive Database’, ‘Surveillance of antibiotic prescribing’. This poster entitled ‘Pharmacy workplace. To ensure all employees are permission to take part from their line Antimicrobial Consumption in bursary, to a maximum of Folders for the Wards’. bullyproofed against the negative effects of managers prior to applying. bullying and to educate on the Dignity at Work Policy. How to apply: Contact the Corporate Learning and The role: Development Unit, Central Office, Arden As a facilitator you will charged with Road by phone or email for an application delivering the programme, in a positive form. manner and to be committed to the ethos of a quality working life. Vicki Willetts 0506 28979 [email protected] Skills: Training in the skills required will be provided. Closing Date: 27th May 05

Time Commitment: For further information - Please contact the 9 delivery days per year above . 1 day annual workshop Breast Check Breastcheck is in the HSE Midland Area from April to September. All women aged between 50 and 64 years of age can avail of this free service. Ms. Marie Philbin MRHT being congratulated on her win by Ms. Joan Peppard President Hospital Pharmacists’ Association, Ireland.

5 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News Family Welfare Conference Service Introduced in Longford and Westmeath

A Family Welfare Where does Family Welfare professional networks over a Conference Service has Conferencing fit? period of four to six weeks pre- been introduced in the We come under the remit of FWConference .This helps to Longford Westmeath Family Support and are inform all the participants and Sector since January. therefore open to a wide also builds bridges between Based in the Primary Care referral base. service users and service Unit on St.Loman’s providers – it can be a very campus, the service has What’s in it for you? empowering experience for been busy developing This is a new statutory families and professionals Standard Operating instrument which can alike! Procedures, Practice effectively mobilise resources Most importantly, the children, Guidelines and promoting to target need and address young people and vulnerable concerns. adults involved are the Service via a raft of in- The FWC model can work well encouraged to identify their house and inter-agency to prevent further harm in own support information sharing early, mid term and later networks/advocates at the sessions with all the stages of family interventions. FWConference. This gives Statutory agency groups The process involves them a clear opportunity to and other potential partnership in planning and have their views, wishes and referring agencies and decision-making between feelings listened to and acted services. Family Welfare families and professionals; the upon at the Conference. The Conferencing is process engenders clarity for fullest participation by family underpinned by the families regarding the various members and significant Children Act 2001 and roles and responsibilities of others in the making of a Children First. Mo Smith, professionals involved and Family plan is another key Family Conference Team encourages families to take component, which aims to Leader explains what the equal responsibility for and build interpersonal trust service is about: ownership of any concerns between family members and raised. professionals. What is a Family Welfare The FWC Service is Family Conference? What do we mean by the Rights -based: Introducing the FWC Service Team: Eamonn Farrell ~ Family Support Services Manager A Family Welfare Conference FWC Model? Of course, this way of working Mo Smith~ Family Welfare Conference Team Leader Annie Reilly ~ Family Welfare Conference Co-ordinator is a meeting which allows for The FWC model is based on is not always successful~ the equal participation of family strengths and is about some families have few or no family members and problem-solving from a family resources of their own to tap HSE Midland Area professionals. The purpose of led perspective. Other FWC into. Others do not wish to the meeting is to make a Service evaluations and ‘expose’ their difficulties within EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE SERVICE Family Plan which addresses current research indicate that their own family group. concerns raised about the families can and do make safe This is a matter of choice : Confidential Counselling, Support and Referral Service welfare and safety of the child plans for the welfare and families have the right to a or young person who is the safety of their children. Family Welfare Conference to If you are experiencing personal or work related difficulties, and you would like to speak subject of the FWC .The plan try and work on problems if to a counsellor in confidence, Please feel free to contact: identifies relevant family and How does the FWC they so wish – they can also Tel: 0506 – 28033 Freephone: 1800 240 414 E-mail: [email protected] professional resources Model work? decide against! Remember this is your service! needed. The Family Plan Families need enough What is most significant is that should be unanimously information and support to be Family Welfare Conference Opening Hours: Mon-Thurs: 09.00 - 17.00 Fri: 09.00-16.45 • Closed for Lunch: 13.00 - 14.00 agreed, as long as it does not enabled to Service gives them a choice place the child/ young person 1) make sense of the problems with built in support.. FWC is a Confidential Counselling services are provided regularly in Tullamore, at further risk of harm and they face and new, exciting and challenging Athlone, Longford, Mullingar and Portlaoise – contact the service for more information meets their needs. 2) to make a plan which both practice in support of families. To make an appointment Telephone: 1800 240414 or 0506 - 28033 The FWC is held in a neutral families and key professionals You can access our SOPS and Call in or write to our service at: O’Neill’s Place, off High St., Tullamore, Co. Offaly setting; It is a friendly but can unanimously agree in the the Referral Form to the FWC E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 0506-28044 business-like meeting, best interests of the child or Service on the Intranet or specifically structured to young person. contact : AN EMERGENCY APPOINTMENT CAN BE ARRANGED promote mutual respect, The FWC Co-ordinator has BY CONTACTING MONICA AT 1800 240 414 OR 0506 – 28033 ownership of concerns and time to prepare birth and Mo Smith ~Team Leader: External Counselling Services can also be accessed through the Employee Assistance Service partnership between families extended family members, 086 8511073 – give us a call and we will give you the contact information – we don’t need to know who you are. and professionals. community-based and email: [email protected] TEN STEPS TO HEALTHY AGEING IMPLEMENTED IN RESIDENTIAL CARE CENTRES The Health Promoting Residential committee. The initiative is intended supporting facilities in completion of Personal Space & Belongings, Collation of data, Care Initiative is being as a quality improvement initiative in the “Ten Steps to Healthy Ageing”. Independence, Lifestyle, Priorities identified, implemented in residential care the residential care setting using Healthy Staff, Family Friendly, Implementation guide developed, centres for older people in the primarily health promotion principle The key elements are; Establishment of project groups, HSE Midland Area. and practice. It is intended that this • Progress towards Progress to date Self- appraisals completed, The initiative was developed by an initiative will become a resource that person-centred care, In the Midlands Area, the foundations Action plans developed for this Initiative were already laid expert committee convened by the supports residential facilities to • Creation of a positive and implemented, through the involvement of all National Council on Ageing and achieve the standards. working environment, Monitored and reviewed, Older People and chaired by the • Creation of a family-friendly Residential Care Centres for Older Process continued. people in Longford/Westmeath and Nursing Policy Advisor for Care of The goals of the initiative are: environment. Laois/ Offaly in other projects such as; the Older Person and Palliative Care, • To support residential care facilities For more information or details on Arts in Care, Music in Healthcare, Department of Health & Children. In in realising and acting upon their It proposes Ten Steps to the the initiative, please contact Activity in Care Training. keeping with health promotion health promoting capacity. attainment of Healthy Ageing Status Ms. Patricia Carroll, principles, a wide range of experts in residential care facilities; To date much progress has been Project Co-ordinator, from the Irish HPH Network, health • To assist residential care facilities to Consultation, achieved with the Initiative; Services for Older People, services organisations and relevant adopt a health promotion aspect to Health Promotion Policy, Preliminary meetings, HSE Midland Area, voluntary agencies contributed to the their daily work. Policy to Practice, Choice, Provision of awareness sessions, Unit 12, Lough Sheever design of the initiative by the • To achieve the above through Information Practices, Consultations with residents, Corporate Park, Mullingar.

6 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News HSE Midland Area Staff Receive Awards at Risk Management Conference

The HSE Midlands Area was well represented among the award winners at the National conference of the Healthcare Lecturer at Flinders University. and honestly talks about Risk Managers Forum which took place recently. Her presentation entitled failures in the system. “Integrated Risk Management - The day concluded with a Dr Crotty, Consultant Merseyside who previously A Blueprint for Effective lively and stimulating Haematologist at MRH had a distinguished career as Governance, Patient Safety presentation from Ms Cora Tullamore, Kate Brickley, Risk an Ear Nose and Throat and Performance Improve- McCaughan Acting Director of Manager Acute Services and surgeon started off the ment” looked at the Corporate Fitness, Ms Majella Kevin O’Malley, Risk Manager proceedings. His humourous emergence of patient safety Robinson Clinical Audit Officer Mental Health Services were presentation “Involving issues in Australia. She and Mr Moss Mc Cormack, awarded certificates for their Clinicians in Risk Management discussed the formation of a Accreditation Manager. The poster presentations winning at operational level” provided Dr. Gerard Crotty and Ms. Kate Brickley receiving their Risk Culture in an organisation presentation entitled “Conjoint three of the seven available interesting insights into the certificates for their winning poster presentations. and concluded that the most working of Corporate awards. In all, seven of the 22 difficulties encountered. He successful organisations are Governance to improve Health posters exhibited were strongly believes that the Identifying, analysing and was the world renowned Dr those who can capture the Service Quality and Safety” presented by Midlands staff. future clinical activity of trained Managing Risk because we all Maree Bellamy. Dr Bellamy is hearts, minds and energy of looked at the successes, There was a combination of nurses, junior doctors and manage risk and patients. the Deputy Director of Clinical the employees to work towards opportunities and limitations of International and National consultant is of paramount Throughout the day national Governance at Hunter a common goal. This she said the system in place in the speakers at the event, importance given the speakers discussed a range of Healthcare, New South Wales, included influencing a risk Midlands Area. This including three eminent emergence of empowered topics including Risk profiles, Australia. She previously held consciousness in people while presentation was very well keynote speakers, Mr Jeffrey patients. He concluded by Incident/Near Miss Reporting the position of Director of they conduct their daily received. Special thanks to all Mc Elwain, Dr Maree Bellamy proposing the path to success and incorporating Risk Health at Standards activities. She emphasised the our attendees who have and Ms Anne O Brien. for all staff as ‘Being involved, Management in the International, Editor of the Law need for all organisations to cascaded the information Mr Jeffrey Mc Elwain is a Risk Being accountable, Being governance structure. in practice section of move beyond blame and learned at the conference to all Management Consultant in responsible, Being competent, The second keynote speaker “Australian Doctor” and establish a culture that openly the staff in their area. Clinical Audit and Research News Here is an update on some recent projects carried out by the Clinical Audit and Research Department of the HSE Midland Area.

MRHT Laboratory sample of 30 charts per month department completed the was recently carried out, Questionnaires were sent to a planning has just been A retrospective audit of from October to December questionnaires. Data collection during which the views of staff random selection of clients in completed, and with a laboratory request forms took 2004 were taken from the A&E is complete and the findings working in this area were both areas and are currently response rate of 66%, the place over a four -day period in filing system. The results are will be available shortly. sought. The results of the being analysed. Analyses are results have proved very December 2004. The currently being presented to audit showed that there were also being carried out on informative. A full report will objectives of the audit staff. Childcare, Children & deficiencies in some aspects questionnaires completed by be made available at the end included the recording of the Families of documenting nursing care ‘walk-in’ clients. The of the month. number of incomplete MRHM In the Childcare, Children and and that staff require further evaluation report will be laboratory request forms Evaluation of Rooming-In Families area several projects education in relation to care available in June. Staff News: received, where request forms Practices are taking place and planned planning. We would like to welcome the originated and to ensure 100% An evaluation of Rooming In for this year as follows: Monitoring and Evaluation of following new members of compliance with the standard practices was carried out in Assistance with an audit of 7-9 An Eating Disorder Service is the Portarlington Primary Care staff: of having the request form fully the maternity unit in the in month developmental currently being set up in St. Health Team is ongoing. Lia Evans who is the Clinical completed before a test is October 2004. Rooming-In is a screening in the Vincent’s Hospital, Athlone. In Audit Facilitator for the Midland The evaluation reports on the performed. Baby Friendly Hospital Longford/Westmeath area order to determine the Regional Hospital in Tullamore. Child Safety Awareness Initiative action that was recently completed. effectiveness of this service Lia has moved from the Programme (CSAP) and Point Radiology Department encourages the mother to be An evaluation of the newly an evaluation will be carried Occupational health team in of Care testing are now A similar retrospective audit of with her baby at all times. The implemented structure and out. This will consist of pre- Tallaght hospital. available. The CSAP report radiology request forms was questionnaires were format of the Ante-Post Natal service assessment and a Rachel McEvoy is now was presented in poster format carried out in January to look completed by mothers and Record Book in the post-service assessment. A supporting research in the at the recent Healthcare Risk at compliance with the midwives and analysed by the Laois/Offaly area is underway. patient/client satisfaction field of Health Promotion. Management Forum in Dublin. standard of having the request Clinical Audit and Research An Audit of Community Care survey will also be carried out Rachel came from the Institute The Point of Care report was form fully completed before an Department. The results were Plans for Older People at each at a later stage. for Public Health in Ireland. presented in poster format at x-ray is performed. The audit fed back to staff on the health centre and community Petrina Duff has joined us to the Integrated Care also catalogued the number of maternity unit and rehabilitation team location is There are also a number of cover research and audit in the Conference in Dublin Castle in incomplete x-ray request forms recommendations have been underway. client satisfaction surveys area of Childcare Services February. received x-ray department, put in place to improve An audit of the PKU procedure being carried out within the and Children and Families. and the departments they rooming-in practices on the is being planned for the Mental Health Services. She previously worked as a Health Promotion research consultant with the originated from. Overall the maternity unit. Longford/Westmeath area. Primary Care Health Promotion Research in findings of this audit are good An evaluation of the role of the Work Research Centre in An evaluation of the Midland recent months has been Dublin. with three areas highlighted for A Clinical Audit of DNA’s in Acute Paediatric Link Nurse Crisis Pregnancy Counselling concentrating primarily on the improvement: Recording the Radiology’s Ultrasound within paediatric services for Denise McCarthy is covering Service was carried out in evaluation of the Playground Mental Health research and patients date of birth, address Department. chronically ill children and February. During 2004, 1702 Markings project and the Irish and hospital consultant. Other A Clinical Audit of DNAs in the children with high dependency audit. She had previously phone calls were logged with Family Planning Association worked in the Western Health than these criteria, the ultrasound department was needs on the health services the service, 80 appointments Theory and Skills Course in findings were positive, as there carried out last August. The within Laois/Offaly is planned Board. Our most recent were made and 47 hours of Family Planning. researcher to join is Jo was almost 100% compliance objective of the audit was to for this year. counselling provided. The with the remainder of the examine the reasons why Assistance with Phase II of the In relation to the evaluation of O’Keeffe who joins us from the majority of clients attending NorthWestern Health Board. standards. patients were not arriving for Childcare Residential Needs the service were Irish (94%). the playground markings their ultrasound appointment. Assessment Study. This Client’s age ranged from 15 to project, ethical approval has The variety of research and Audit of the The report is now complete research consults with all 39 years (mean = 24 years). been granted and we have just audit skills and experience Australian Triage System and staff are addressing stakeholders in relation to Clients gave very positive completed our pre-observation they offer will greatly enhance The objectives of this audit improvements on the topic. childcare residential services. feedback about the service. exercises using SOPLAY: the work of the department. were to assess if the patients It aims to identify childcare SOPLAY was designed to were triaged on arrival to the Clinical Audit of needs and inform the An evaluation of the out-of- counter the problems of Some of you may have A&E department. Also to IV Cannula Insertion development of future hours MIDOC service in assessing physical activity in already be working with assess if the triage A Clinical Audit of IV cannula childcare residential services. Athlone and Mullingar is ‘open’ environments, such as them but should you need documentation was adequate insertion was carried out in Ethical approval has recently currently being undertaken. recreational and leisure to contact them or any of to assess the appropriateness A&E. The objective of the been sought and it is hoped The aim of this evaluation is to settings (McKenzie 2000). our staff our office number of the triage, to assess if the audit was to assess the the project will commence assess the efficiency of the Our post observations are is (0506) 27924. Full contact category to which the patients current procedures utilised by shortly. service, to establish the level scheduled for early June. We details for the team are were assigned was the doctors and nurses while of satisfaction/dissatisfaction hope to have the final report available on the intranet appropriate to the patient’s inserting a peripheral venous Mental Health with the service and to available in July. under our services, physiological status and cannula. Doctors and nurses An audit of Nursing Care Plans establish how and where The evaluation of the theory Corporate Fitness, Clinical assess waiting time. A random who work in the A&E in the Mental Health Services improvements can be made. and skills course in family Audit and Research.

7 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News FOCUS ON Twenty-Seven Graduate from HSE Midland Area Hosts the Midland School of Nursing Home Conference

Nursing The Nursing and Midwifery Demeleza Dooner, Diabetic challenge for the care staff is Planning and Development Nurse Specialist who gave a to work towards creating an Twenty-seven graduating Nursing and Midwifery Posts. The students also thanked Unit (NMPDU) hosted the 2nd very comprehensive overview atmosphere that is nurses from the Midland She urged the graduates to Seamus Doyle who designed annual Nursing Home of caring for the older person meaningful, creative and Regional School of Nursing commit themselves to a their certificates. Conference in Tullamore in with diabetes, with the focus interactive. She gave a very received their diplomas from journey of life-long learning. April. A regional practice on how we can adopt a practical demonstration to the the Assistant Chief Officer of In closing, Assistant Chief development group, with holistic approach to the care group on activities which the HSE Midland Area, Mr Orlaith O’Brien, Director of Officer of the HSE Midland representatives from the given. could be used in the John Bulfin, at a graduation Nursing at the Midland Area, John Bulfin said it was a private sector and the Other presentations on the residential settings which are ceremony in Tullamore. Regional Hospital at Tullamore ‘fantastic day for the Regional Practice day included a very practical inexpensive and easy to do. congratulated the graduates graduates, their partners and Development Facilitator for and informative presentation Eddie Green, Community The majority of the new on behalf of the Directors of their parents.” Older People, has been from Pauline Dunne Psychiatric Nurse from the graduates are continuing to Nursing at the Midland Health established. The main aim of Community Dietitian on Laois/Offaly region spoke work in the HSE Midland Area Board three acute hospital “You have come through a this group has been to nutrition and the older person about depression in the older hospitals. sites. competitive selection process, support practice development and from Stacey Rigoll, person. It was a very and an intensive training and education and training Speech and Language interesting and stimulating The nurses are the fourth and “It is an exciting and course to get to where you are within the private nursing Therapist on swallowing presentation, highlighting the final class to graduate from the challenging time for you. today. You should be extremely home group. The annual difficulties and best feeding need for carrying out a Midland School of Nursing, as Some of you may travel, others proud of yourselves,” Mr Bulfin conference has become an practice. Paula Phelan, comprehensive assessment all future nurses will graduate I hope will stay closer to home, said. important part of this initiative. Regional Documentation involving the patient, family from the Degree programme at but wherever you go, you will This year’s conference, Officer, highlighted the use of and relevant services when the Athlone Institute of have the skills to carry out He also spoke of the changes entitled, Sharing Knowledge assessment tools in caring for the mental health Technology. The General your work to the highest in nurse practice, and to Improve how we Care for enhancing the delivery of care care needs of the older Nursing Registration/Diploma standard,” Ms O’Brien said. developments such as the our Older People was very to patients. This was person. course was conducted as a Brendan Power spoke on European Working Time well attended, with reiterated by several of the It proved to be a very partnership between the behalf of the students thanking Directive, which would mean representation from nursing speakers during the day. enjoyable and rewarding day. Midland Health Board and the everyone who supported the their profession would continue homes, within the HSE Maura Byrne, Clinical Nurse The participants used the Institute of Technology, students and contributed to to evolve, and ensure they had Midland area. Presentations Specialist, Activation Therapy opportunity to network with Athlone. In all, 118 nurses their training from an even bigger role in the throughout the day developed stressed the importance of their colleagues from the other have graduated from the administration staff, library delivery of health services. on this theme. Among the creating stimulation and social nursing homes and the HSE Midland School of Nursing staff, and tutors, to medical presentations was that of interaction for residents. The Midland Area. since it was established in and clinical staff in the thee Finally, Mr Bulfin urged the 1998. acute hospital sites. graduates not to lose their “We have many memories caring attitude. Guest speaker at the from our first blood pressure, graduation ceremony was our first injection, our first time “When people are vulnerable, Kathleen MacLellan who is in uniform and our first a caring attitude is what they head of professional placement, these will always want most. Never lose it,” he development and continuing be special memories for us,” concluded. education with the National Brendan said. “No matter Council for the Professional where we go, we will always Two prizes were awarded to Development of Nursing and wear the HSE Midland Area students during the ceremony. Midwifery. badge with pride” . Ann Marie Ward of Portarlington received the Kathleen outlined to the The students then presented Directors’ of Nursing Award graduates the wide range of their tutors and directors of and Frances Mahon of Pictured at the Nursing Home Conference were from l to r: Mary Manning, Regional Practice choices available to them in nursing with bouquets of Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Development Facilitator for Older People NMPDU; Rosemary Suzin, Nurse Manager, Laurel developing their careers, such flowers to show their received the School of Nursing Lodge Nursing Home Longford; Sharon Hennessey, Nurse Manager, Our Lady’s Manor as roles as Clinical Nurse appreciation. Award. Edgeworthstown; Ester Brennan, Nurse Manager, Ballard Lodge, Portlaoise; Stacey Rigoll, Managers and Advanced Speech &Language Therapist; Pauline Dunne, Community Dietitian and Joe Gilligan Nurse Manager, Retreat Nursing Home, Athlone.

The graduating nurses were; Josephine Bergin-Dwyer Tullamore, Co. Offaly Niamh Coffey Mullingar, Co. Westmeath Orla Corrigan Tullamore, Co. Offaly Anna Marie Davis Tullamore, Co. Offaly Ann Doyle Birr, Co. Offaly Carole Dunne Ballymahon, Co. Longford Karen Dunne Tullamore, Co. Offaly Paula Dunne Kilcormack, Co. Offaly Jacinta Egan Athlone, Co. Westmeath Annette Fallon Athlone, Co. Westmeath Ursula Gorman Geishall, Co. Offaly Elizabeth Kennan Edenderry, Co. Tullamore Frances Mahon Castlereagh, Co. Roscommon Teresa Mullally Roscrea, Co. Tipperary Ann Mullen Ballahadreen, Co. Roscommon Louise McDowell Tullamore, Co. Offaly Eimear McEvoy Mullingar, Co. Westmeath Ellen O’Donnell Kells, Co. Kilkenny Sharon O’Rourke Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Brendan Power Loughrea, Co. Galway Paula Reade Malahide, Co. Dublin Padraig Shryane Ballymot, Co. Sligo Denis Sullivan Carbury, Co. Kildare The graduating nurses pictured with front row l to r: Des Cawley, AIT, Kathleen MacLellan, National Council for Professional Martin Teehan Thurles, Co. Tipperary Development of Nursing & Midwifery, John Bulfin, Asst. Chief Officer HSE Midland Area, Pauline Coughlan, Director, Midland School Anne Marie Ward Portarlington, Co. Offaly of Nursing, Larry Bane, Director Human Resources, HSE Midland Area, Orlaith O’Brien, Director of Nursing, Midland Regional Hospital at Tullamore, Patrick Glackin, Director Nursing & Midwifery Planning and Development Unit, HSE Midland Area.

8 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News NURSING REGIONAL NURSING & MIDWIFERY CONFERENCE The Nursing & Midwifery, ordinated by Professor Planning and Development Brendan McCormack, Unit (NMPDU) hosted its third University of Ulster. Annual Regional Conference The mid-morning session of in March attended by over 200 the conference was chaired by delegates. Ms. Eleanor Dowling, Director The theme of the conference of Public Health Nursing, HSE, was ‘Empowerment – Enabling Midland Area. Innovation and Change’. Ms. Lynn Young, Primary The appropriateness of the Health Care Advisor, Royal theme was accentuated by the College of Nursing (RCN) gave recent publication of the ‘Final a presentation on the U.K. Report of the Empowerment of experience of empowerment. Nurses and Midwives Steering She stated “empowered Group – An Agenda for people need training, Change’ (2004). psychological preparation and In her opening address, Ms. shared values, but none of this Anne Judge, Management and will work unless we have Organisation Development absolute integrity, wisdom and Specialist, The Office for proper leadership”. Health Management stated Ms. Margaret Gordon, that “without empowerment Executive Director of Nursing Staff of the Nursing & Midwifery Planning and Development Unit pictured at the third annual Regional Nursing and Midwifery there cannot be innovation and and Quality in Causeway Conference. From l to r: (seated) Mary Redmond and Ann Devitt. (standing) Kathleen Griffin, Paula Phelan, Bernadette Kerry, change”. Health and Social Services Elaine Fallon, Patrick Glackin, Marian Wyer, Mary Manning and Eilish Croke. Ms. Judge proceeded to inform Trust, gave a comprehensive delegates of her role and presentation on nurse led rapid Acute Care: Person-Centred Planning speakers, poster presenters, to Ms. Pauline Lee and Ms. experience in contributing to response teams, who deliver a Pre-assessment Clinic Mr. P.J. Jacob, CNM2 & Ms. sponsors and organising Margaret Hyland, St. Joseph’s the development of the range of managed complex Initiative Sandra Masterson, CNM1, committee on the success of Care Centre, Longford, for their empowerment report. But home healthcare solutions in Ms. Lillian Kenny, Staff Nurse, Lough Sheever Centre, the conference. presentation entitled warned “that when one group partnership with all existing Surgical Ward, MRH, Mullingar ‘Empowering staff through of staff is empowered, another services. Tullamore Paediatrics: POSTER PRESENTATIONS sharing knowledge and group is not disempowered”. The afternoon chairperson Primary Care: Role of Paediatric Link Nurse A total of 25 posters from expertise’. Mr. Patrick Glackin, Director of was Mr. Gerry Raleigh, Acting Primary Care Team Pilot – Ms. Elaine O’Brien-Doyle, across the HSE, Midland Area The two runner-up prizes were the NMPDU, gave an overview General Manager, Disability Progress Paediatric Link Nurse, MRH, were on display at the awarded to: of the major projects and Services, HSE, Midland Area. Ms. Carol McCann, Practice Portlaoise conference. The Ms. Elaine McGinn, Irish initiatives which are being led Ms. Eileen Kelly, Nurse Manager, PCT, Portarlington Public Health Nursing: presentations featured Prison Service, for her or facilitated by the unit at Practice Development Co- Mental Health: Role of Public Health Nurse in innovations in practice, service presentation ‘Care versus national and regional level. ordinator, St. Joseph’s Psycho – Social Interventions the Portarlington Primary Care delivery, role development and Custody’. Projects of a national priority Intellectual Disability Service, Mr. Michael Hyland, CNM3, St. Team education for both Ms. Regina Reynolds, Athlone include the development of a Portrane, gave a presentation Loman’s Hospital, Mullingar Ms. Geraldine Delaney, Public practitioners and Community Mental Health recruitment and retention on collaborative action Midwifery: Health Nurse patients/clients. team for her presentation strategy for nurses and research within the field of Midwifery Led Service Prison Service: The posters were judged by ‘Supported Employment in midwives, and addressing the Intellectual Disabilities. Ms. Marie Corbett, CNM2, Development of Nursing Ms. Eileen Kelly and Ms. Mental Health – The Next skill mix agenda. This was followed by Labour Ward, MRH, Mullingar Practice – Prison Service Margaret Gordon, taking Step?’ At regional level, the NMPDU is concurrent sessions for the Care of Older Person: Ms. Mary Keavens, Nurse cognisance of the relevance to Congratulations and thank you facilitating a quality initiative to rest of the afternoon, which Dementia: An awareness Officer, Midland Prison the theme of the conference, to everyone who participated. develop Patient Centred provided an opportunity to programme in Person-Centred Service visual presentation and clarity We look forward to new Practices in two locations for showcase local innovations Care Mr. Pat O’Dowd, Assistant of text. displays of innovations and Older Person Services. This and initiatives in health care. Ms. Deirdre Ryan, CNM2, St. CEO, HSE, Midland Area, in initiatives next year. project is unique to the The following topics were Mary’s Centre, Mullingar his closing remarks BEST POSTER Republic of Ireland, and is co- presented: Intellectual Disability: complimented all of the The prize for best poster went Developing Person-Centred Practices in Continuing Care/Rehabilitation Settings for Older People

The Person Centred Care Projects which were the project are talking about how it can make Midwifery Planning and Development Unit The two year systematic practice development launched last year at the Community Nursing day to day life in the unit more meaningful for (NMPDU) of the HSE Midland Area and the project is supported by a grant from the National Unit in Birr and St Mary’s Care Centre, Mullingar all the people who live and work there. University of Ulster as a collaborative practice Council. Across both sites, core participants are already seeing systematic practice At St Mary’s development programme with staff who work in meet every six weeks and are engaging in a development integrated into the workplace. • Staff have become less task orientated and services for older people. range of project planning activities. Both sites have been working on developing and more client focused, Routine rituals are being sharing a collective vision for what person- questioned by nursing and non nursing staff centred care will look like. As many staff and some rituals are beginning to disappear. older people as possible contributed ideas on • Staff are focusing on putting the patient at the what aspects of care or day to day life could be centre of things, looking at care from ‘The changed in keeping with the vision, and this Patient Out’. In general staff are spending exercise produced a number of themes, each more time with the patients attending to their with distinct projects. Other indicators of fundamental individual needs which are so progress are: important to them. At Birr • The patients and relatives are becoming • Being open to change – it was noted how involved . welcoming the unit has been to the • Brainstorming sessions with some non introduction of new forms of documentation nursing staff have been very positive and they • There is an increasing awareness of and are happy that they are being involved in the enthusiasm for the project work throughout project. the unit, with groups of staff looking to get • Staff want to claim ownership of Project and more involved are beginning to realise that the processes • Being involved in the work is helping those used in practice development are as involved to see ‘the bigger picture’ of how their important as the outcomes. work is contributing to better care for older • It is leading to a positive change in culture. people across the Midlands • ‘Bringing life to the task’ – people involved in The Project was initiated by the Nursing and The Person Centred Care Project Team at St. Mary’s Care Centre, Mullingar

9 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News COMPUTER HELPDESK UPDATE

In this issue of the Midland Area News, we will cover MS To see a previously viewed slide ON ARCS... Powerpoint, offering some helpful hints and tips for those who use Right-click, and on the shortcut menu, click Last Viewed. this application. SET UP A PRESENTATION TO There is also an outline of the current projects within the Hospital START AUTOMATICALLY Systems Programme. On the File menu, click Save As. MICROSOFT POWERPOINT In the Save as type box, select PowerPoint show (.pps). In the File name box, enter a file name, and then click Save. Helpful Tips on Giving Better Presentations Notes To start the presentation, double-click the file name in For presentations intended to educate or persuade people in Windows Explorer. To advance through the presentation, click a professional setting or under other formal situations, it’s a anywhere on the screen. To exit the presentation before it is good idea to follow these tips: finished, press ESC.

Keep the number of slides to about six. State the problem, the solution, the alternatives rejected, the research to support the ALWAYS SHOW THE POINTER solution, the cost (budget/resources), and action items. Title DURING A SLIDE SHOW slides and a last slide labelled “Questions” can be included in the slide deck, but the body of your talk should comprise about six Right-click, point to Pointer Options, and then click Arrow. slides, no more. Note By default, the arrow is set at Automatic, which means it’s Try to keep each bullet point to one line in length, without text hidden automatically after 3 seconds of inactivity. The arrow wrapping. Doing so aids readability and makes a list of bullets appears again when you move the mouse. To keep the arrow neat and scannable. Remove articles such as “a” and “the” if displayed all the time, right-click, point to Pointer Options, point possible. to Arrow Options, and then click Visible. The Appliance Recycling Centre (ARCS) based in Choose an appealing design template that is professional and not REMEMBER Petitswood Mullingar opened in May 2004. The aims of the too eye-catching after the first slide. You don’t want the design to detract from your message. Calls logged via email to the Helpdesk using the ISS centre were: Helpdesk Call Logging Form receive a quicker response Keep your slides accessible where possible. Use high contrast than calling the Helpdesk telephone. • To allow the recycling of aids and appliances returned between background colour and text colour. For example, though from the community a violet background with grey or white text is soft and IF YOU ARE NOT ON EMAIL, OR YOUR EMAIL IS DOWN, • By providing cleansing and servicing approachable, you should avoid it, because people may have USE A COLLEAGUES EMAIL. YOU SHOULD ONLY PHONE • To track appliances being recycled or purchased from new, trouble reading it. THE HELPDESK AS A LAST RESORT. using tracking module of SAP. Email – [email protected] • To become more client centred in our provision of aids and Keep your text simple. Effective slide text is not confusing and appliances to those who require them in the community. keeps people turning from each slide to you for more information. Alternatively, telephone the Helpdesk on (0506) 57999. • To provide value for money If you observe people focusing on your slides, the slides may Ensure to provide a detailed description of your problem • To provide part-time employment to people with disabilities contain too much data or be confusing or distracting in some including your PC Reference Number (MSD Number) and other way. your phone number. The development of the recycling has been a learning curve and has been going from strength to strength. Ask your audience to hold questions until the end. Questions are Please also refer to the IT Support and Helpdesk section of an excellent indicator that people are engaged by your subject the ISS Department Intranet website. Achievements 2004 matter and presentation skills. But if you save them until the end CURRENT PROJECTS within the Hospital Systems Programme of the presentation, you will get through the material • Availability of clean, serviced equipment for community uninterrupted. Also, early questions are often answered by There are four projects within the Hospital Systems care clients ensuing slides and commentary. Programme: the HIS (Hospital Information System Project), the • Equipment can now be collected and delivered to service PARIS (Picture Archiving Radiology Information System) project, users’ homes. Stay on time! If your allotted time is 10 minutes, do not go over. If the LIS (Laboratory Information Systems) Project, and the HICT • Centre is now open five days per week. there’s no time limit, take less time rather than more to ensure that (Hospital Information & Communication Technology) project. • Cleansing machine is fully operational with storage people stay engaged. facilities off-site. The HIS Project is about the implementation of a national • Lo-call telephone number established: 1850 0200 776 HOW TO GO TO THE NEXT SLIDE administration system which will drive all patient and clinical data • SAP tracking system with tagging became operational. WHILE PRESENTING in the hospitals in the region, on a phased basis. Aims 2005 Use any of the following commands to navigate from one slide to The LIS Project is concerned with implementing a national the next while you’re giving a slide show or reviewing a Laboratory system for the HSE Midland Area. • Initially, the service has been within the presentation in slide show view. Longford/Westmeath sector, the service will now become The PARIS project is concerned with sourcing and implementing available in Laois/Offaly. TO GO TO THE NEXT SLIDE a combined PACS (digital radiology) and RIS (radiology • SAP tracking system will become available to relevant line Click the mouse. administration system) for the new Midland Regional Hospital at managers and community staff. Staff will then be able to Press SPACEBAR or ENTER. Tullamore in the first instance, and subsequently the roll out of this check if the item they require is in stock. Right-click, and on the shortcut menu, click Next. system to the other sister hospitals in the region, on a phased • Continue to improve the quality and efficiency of service. basis. • To increase awareness among HSE Midland Area staff TO GO TO A SPECIFIC SLIDE about this service. Type the slide number, and then press ENTER. The Hospital Infrastructure Project is concerned with providing an • To increase public awareness of this service. Right-click, point to Go to Slide on the shortcut menu, and then IT technical architecture for the new hospital in Tullamore, and click the slide you want. also providing IT support for the other projects in the programme. The ARCS service is available to all HSE Midland Area staff who are aware of or have aids and appliances which are not TO SEE A PREVIOUSLY VIEWED SLIDE in use. You can contact the service at 1850 0200 776 or by Right-click, and on the shortcut menu, click Last Viewed. emailing [email protected]

REMEMBER Help make the best use of our resources and make them HOW TO GO TO A SPECIFIC SLIDE Contacting ISS IT Helpdesk for IT support available when they are needed. WHILE PRESENTING If you encounter any problems or issues with your PC, Printer etc.. please contact our Helpdesk on email at Type of Equipment: Beds, wheelchairs, chairs, hoists, Use the following commands to navigate to another slide you’re [email protected] personal appliances of daily living, pressure relief products. giving a slide show or reviewing a presentation in slide show view. Alternatively telephone (0506) 57999. To go to the previous slide Ensure to provide a detailed description of your Press BACKSPACE. for the latest from problem including your Management Services Department Right-click, and on the shortcut menu, click Previous. the HSE log on to: reference number (MSD number) and your phone number. To go to a specific slide Type the slide number, and then press ENTER. This information can be found in the Information Right-click, point to Go to Slide on the shortcut menu, and then Systems Services of the MHB Intranet. click the slide you want. www.hse.ie

10 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR STAFF (FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACTS, DATA PROTECTION ACTS & ADMINISTRATIVE ACCESS POLICY)

Prepared by the National FOI & DP Liaison Officers Group

In 2004, the National FOI & DP Liaison which allow the public body to refuse access to The legal obligations of the DP Acts apply to Sensitive personal information should not Officers Group prepared and published a certain records. The Acts also provide appeal both the private and public sectors. The Acts generally be transmitted by fax. Where this guide for staff, to the Freedom of rights for requesters, who are dissatisfied with apply only to the personal information of living cannot be avoided, the destination fax number Information (FOI) Acts, the Data Protection the decisions made by public bodies relating to individuals. should be checked and the recipient should be (DP) Acts and the Administrative Access requests received, as follows; informed of the transmission to ensure prompt Policy. The guide provides information in Data Protection rights apply whether the collection. Fax machines used for receiving relation to the main provisions of the • Internal Review (Review within the public body personal data is held: sensitive personal information should be placed legislation, particularly in relation to by an officer more senior than the one who in secure areas. requests for access to personal health made the original decision). In electronic format, i.e., on computer information. In a manual or paper based form. Mail containing sensitive personal information • Independent Review by the Information should be marked clearly with “Strictly Private This Guide has been circulated to all areas. Commissioner. The Eight Rules of the Data Protection Acts and Confidential”. If proof of delivery is Please contact Donal Devery FOI & DP Liaison necessary, information of this nature should be Officer, if you require any further copies • Appeal to the High Court on a point of law. Personal data must be: sent by registered post. ([email protected]). Principles of FOI - obtained and processed fairly Staff photocopying personal information should Administrative Access Policy The Freedom of Information legislation - kept only for one or more specified, explicit ensure that no copies are left on, or around, the As a matter of policy, the HSE supports the right incorporates the following principles: and lawful purposes photocopier when copying has been completed. of a client to see what information is held about - used and disclosed only in ways compatible him or her within its service. Generally, subject Records with these purposes Rooms, cabinets, or drawers in which records to exceptions listed below, access to an Every individual (including staff of a public - kept safe and secure containing personal information are stored, individual’s own health record should be body) has the right: - kept accurate, complete and up-to-date should be locked when unattended. provided administratively (the guide provides - adequate, relevant and not excessive details on the process which should be - to seek access to records (both personal or - retained for no longer than is necessary Staff should ensure that records containing followed). non-personal) held by a public body, and - available for access by an individual personal information are not left on desks or requesting their data workstations at times, i.e. overnight, when However, if an officer designated to deal with - to have inaccurate or misleading personal unauthorised access might take place. such requests, believes that, after consultation information amended, corrected, or deleted, Principles of DP with the FOI & DP Officer, access should not be All staff should be aware of Data Protection Staff should not leave laptop computers, and/or provided to certain information contained in the subject to specific exemptions, having regard to principles and should be in a position to explain files containing personal information of health record, the application must be the public interest and the right to privacy. to customers (and staff, where applicable) as to patients/staff in unattended cars. All files and processed under the FOI Acts and the applicant why this Executive holds their personal portable equipment should be stored under lock should be notified accordingly. Particular care Decisions information. and key when not actually being used. Staff must be taken when health records contain Individuals who are affected by decisions of should not take files containing personal sensitive matter, for example: public bodies have the right to know the All staff should ensure that personal information information home with them. Where this cannot criteria used in making those decisions. is used, and disclosed, only for the purpose(s) be avoided, procedures for safeguarding the • Documents relating to suspected or actual that it was collected. information effectively should be agreed locally. child abuse. Assistance to Clients The Acts oblige the health agency to provide Privacy Principles and security Staff should be aware that a policy on record • Documents revealing the involvement and assistance to persons in exercising their rights All staff should practice basic privacy principles retention was adopted by all Health Boards in deliberations of an investigation into alleged under the Acts and to advise them of the right in relation to files containing personal 1999, which sets out minimum recommended sexual abuse. of appeal at each stage. information, both electronic and manual; retention periods for various types of records, including medical records. • Documents containing information in relation Records created by staff Each user should ensure that their system to testing for and/or treatment of HIV/AIDS. All staff should be aware that any records password is secure, i.e. known only to them, Data Protection Commissioner (including statements regarding HIV Status) or prepared in the course of the performance of and is changed regularly. The DP Commissioner holds an independent other notifiable diseases under the Health his or her functions are subject to a request office, and is responsible for ensuring that Acts. under the FOI Acts. Staff should bear this in If PCs or VDUs are left unattended, staff should people’s rights are respected, in accordance mind when creating records, as follows: ensure that no personal information might be with the DP Acts, and that persons (businesses, • A deceased person’s record. observed or accessed by unauthorised staff or employers etc.) who process personal Report Writing members of the public. The use of screen information meet their legal obligations as set • In circumstances where it is considered that Staff compiling reports should ensure that savers is advised to reduce the chance of out in the Acts. access could be prejudicial to the physical or reports are factual and that only relevant and casual observation. Computer screens in mental health or well being of the person. objective details are recorded, and that the Emergency Departments, Admission and Any person may make a complaint to the DP names of those attending case-conferences Outpatient Areas and other public areas should, Commissioner if they are of the opinion that • In circumstances where it is considered that etc. are recorded for future information. (Training where possible, be positioned so that they there has been a breach of the DP Acts in the record contains matter about a third party is provided, on request, to HSE Midland staff on cannot be seen other than by the staff member relation to the processing of their personal or information received in confidence from a report writing and minute taking by the FOI & entering the information. information, or if they are not satisfied with a third party. DP office). decision issued further to a request for access

• Any other sensitive matter such as documents Decisions revealing confidential sources of information All decisions made by a public body must be in e.g. information given to the Gardai. accordance with relevant legislation, regulations, policies, procedures and guidelines, GMIT ALUMNI ASSOCIATION • Any application by an adoptee applying for where applicable. Notification of such decisions access to birth-related information. should include reference to these, and be Graduates of the Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), formerly known as the Regional written in clear, precise language. Technical College, Galway are invited to a reunion event to be held in Galway in November. The Alumni Association is particularly keen to hear from graduates of 1975, 1985 and 1995. Freedom of Information Record Keeping The Freedom of Information Acts, 1997 & 2003, Records must be kept accurately, legibly, An Alumni event for graduates living on the east coast of the US is also planned for New York in confer on all persons the right to seek access to correctly filed and archived in accordance with October to coincide with the FBD Connaught Football Final replay between GMIT and NUI, information held by public bodies, to the good practice and any record Galway. greatest extent possible, consistent with the management/retention policy adopted by the public interest and the right to privacy. The Acts public body. Membership of the GMIT Alumni Association is free and automatic to all graduates. Benefits extend to both personal and non-personal include organisation of class reunions and other events, discounts, assistance with starting a records. The Acts apply only to scheduled Data Protection business, etc. public bodies. Data Protection (DP) is the safeguarding of the privacy rights of individuals (including staff) in Contact Michelle Healy, GMIT Alumni Relations Officers on [email protected] or telephone The FOI Acts contain provisions (exemptions), relation to the processing of their personal data. 091 742735.

11 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News

LABHAIR GAEILGE LIOM! Abair Amhrán Ólaim Puins is Ólaim Tae

Curfa SPEAK IRISH TO ME! Ólaim puins is ólaim tae, Bail ó Dhia oraibh go léir! Neart On this website you will find musicians include Paddy Casey, but would like to try and pick it up ‘san lá ‘na dhéidh sin ólaim ‘toddy’; nuacht daoibh anseo. Lots of news information about the syllabus, The Devlins, Liam Ó Maonlaí, again? Then come along to the Ní bhím ar meisc’ ach uair sa ré, for you in this issue. Read on! sample examination papers, Mundy, The Walls, The Frames and Comhrá Gaeilge in the Heritage mo ghrá-sa an déirc is an té a cheap í! information regarding the many more. This CD managed to Centre, Bury Quay, Tullamore, Co. European Language Certification examinations and an application reach number four in the charts so Offaly, and practice your Irish! It Lá má bhím le híota tréith, Ar mhaith leat teastas a bheith agat form. In general, it is advised that far. Perhaps if more people buy it, it starts from 9 pm, Tuesday 24th May Bím lá ‘na dhéidh chun caighdeán do chuid Gaeilge a candidates undertaking will reach number one – what an and will continue every fortnight. a’ glaoch na gcannaí; chur in iúil dod’ fhostaitheoir? Ó mhí Bonnleibhéal 1 should have achievement that would be! All You will meet other people with the Lá le fíon’s arís gan bhraon, na Bealtaine 2005 ar aghaidh beidh completed approximately 80-100 profits from the CD will be donated same interest in Irish and don’t mo ghrá-sa ‘n déirc scrúdú ar fáil ó Ollscoil na hÉireann hours of language study. to CONCERN to help with worry about your standard of is an té a cheap í. Má Nuad ag dhá leibhéal: Those candidates undertaking education in Mozambique. conversational Irish, everyone is Bonnleibhéal 1 agus Bonnleibhéal Bonnleibhéal 2 should expect to welcome! Instruments are welcome Curfa 2. Maidir le hiarrthóirí ar mian leo spend an additional 80-100 hours Oíche Gaeilge sa Tulach Mhór as well. Ar mo theacht a luí ar thréad, tabhairt faoi Bhonnleibhéal 1, moltar studying the language. Tá Adrian Ó Raghnaill ag eagrú If you would like more information, an bhui san fhéith go mbeadh timpeall 80-100 uair an Oíche Comhrá Gaeilge go coicísiúil you can call the Heritage Bar at ‘s na héimh ag leanaí. chloig caite acu ag déanamh Irish Music CD sa Tulach Mhór. Beidh an Oíche (0506 – 60570) Báisteach is rinn staidéir ar an teanga / ag freastal ar Is dlúthdhiosca le bhailiúcháin den Comhrá Gaeilge ar siúl, Dé Máirt, ar ar ghaoth ó táim le déirc ranganna. Maidir leo siúd ar scoth é SnaG ’05 le ceoltóirí móra 24 Bealtaine, agus ansin, coicísiúil Who won? ní baol do m’ gharraí! mhaith leo Bonnleibhéal 2 a na hÉireann ag seinnt air as ón a naoi a chlog. Tar isteach go dtí D’éirigh go maith le Seachtain na dhéanamh, moltar go mbeadh 80- Gaeilge. Tá Paddy Casey, The an Heritage Bar, Bury Quay sa Gaeilge a bhí ar siúl ón 7 go dtí an Curfa 100 uair an chloig breise caite acu Devlins, Liam Ó Maonlaí, Mundy, Tulach Mhór, Uíbh Fhailí agus bí ag 17 Márta i mbliana. Bhí Tráth na Is sámh a bhím i m’ luí le gréin, ag déanamh staidéir ar an teanga / The Walls, The Frames agus neart cleachtadh do chuid Gaeilge! gCeist idir Comhairle Chontae gan suim sa saol ag freastal ar ranganna. ceoltóirí eile san áireamh. D’éirigh Buailfaidh tú le daoine eile leis an Laoise agus Limistéar Lár Tíre ach scléip is starraíocht; leis an dlúthdhiosca seo uimhir a suim céanna agus ná bí buartha d’Fheidhmeannacht na Seirbhíse Gan cháin gan chíos ach Ar an suiomh idirlíon seo a leanas ceathair a bhaint amach sna faoi do chaighdeán Gaeilge, beidh Sláinte i Halla an Chontae i m’intinn saor nach tá gach eolas faoin siollabus, cairteanna ceoil go dtí seo. Má fáilte roimh gach duine agus gach bPortlaoise. Bhí an bua ag an fearr í ‘n déirc ná ceird is ealaín? páipéir scrúdú samplach, eolas faoi cheannaíonn níos mó daoine é caighdeán! Tabhair leat gléas ceoil Chomhairle Chontae an bhliain seo! na scrúdaithe agus foirmeacha b’fhéidir go n-eireoidh leis uimhir a más mian leat. Ní raibh ach dhá phointe idir na Curfa iarratais. h-aon a bhaint amach – éacht Má theastaíonn a thuilleadh eolais, foirne!! www.nuim.ie/language/irishexams. dáíríre! Tá gach brabús an cuir glaoch ar Heritage Bar (0506 – Seachtain na Gaeilge was a html dlúthdhiosca ag dul chuig 60570). success this year. The Quiz in Irish Would you like to attain a CONCERN chun cabhrú le cúrsaí between the Laois County Council Suíomh idirlín dhuit: qualification in Irish? oideachais i Mosaimbíc. Adrian Reynolds is continuing a and HSE Midland Area resulted in WEBSITES FOR YOU TO CHECK OUT: From May 2005 The Language fortnightly Irish conversation night in the County Council winning this www.gaelchultur.com Centre, NUI Maynooth, will be SnaG ’05 is a fantastic compilation Tullamore. If you are an Irish year! There were only two points A bilingual site about promoting offering examinations at two levels: of some of the best known Irish speaker, or maybe you have between the teams!! language and culture together. Bonnleibhéal 1 and Bonnleibhéal 2. musicians singing in Irish. The forgotten every word you ever knew, www.rosnarun.com A bilingual site for those who would like more information about the stars and BASIC CONVERSATIONAL IRISH - BAIN TRIAIL AS CÚPLA FOCAL! storylines in the Gaeltacht soap. Continuing from where we left off in the last issue - more Irish at work (this time we try the x-ray dept and there is also some vocabulary for the Community)

Can you give a report on this patient? The patient was short of breath. Services Forbairt Seirbhísí Pobal- AN TOMHAIS - ?100 mar dhuais/prize An féidir leat tuairisc a thabhairt ar an Bhí gearranáil ar an othar. bhunaithe Bhí an bua ag: othar seo? The patient was drunk Medical Card Cárta Liachta Anne Tynan, Environmental Health Dept., Community Where can I find the emergency box? and he/she wouldn’t cooperate. Services, Cá bhfaighidh mé an bosca éigeandála? Bhí an t-othar ar meisce agus Disabled Persons Maintenance Midland Area, Health Service Executive, Health Centre, ní dhéanfadh sé/sí comhoibriú linn. Allowance Liúntas Cothabhála Dublin Road, Portlaoise, Co. Laois. Where is the on call room? Daoine Míchumasacha Comhgháirdeachas leat! Cá bhfuil an glao-sheomra? The patient is getting worse. Freagra: Tá an t-othar ag dul in olcas. Dressings Íocleasuithe Have you pain? = An bhfuil pian ort? Where is reception /the reception room? Gabhaim míle buíochas le gach duine Cá bhfuil fáiltiú/an seomra fáiltithe? The patient is bleeding. Evidence Fianaise a ghlac páirt. Thankyou everybody who took part. Tá an t-othar ag cur fola. Health Promotion Cothú Sláinte Better luck next time!! Where is the staff room? Go n-eirí an t-ádh libh an t-am seo!! Cá bhfuil an seomra foirne? The patient is in shock. Independent Néamhspleách Tá suaitheadh ar an othar. Information Booklet / Leaflets COMÓRTAS eile : Where is the darkroom? Leabhrán / Bileoga Faisnéise Céard é an Gaeilge ar “Case Conference”? Cá bhfuil an seomra dorcha? The patient has fainted. What is the Irish for “Case Conference”? Tá an t-othar tar éis titim i bhfanntais. Judgement Breithiúnas Nod:(hint) Breathnaigh ar na nathanna cainte thuas. Check in Where is the linen room? the Basic Conversational Irish on this page. Cá bhfuil an seomra línéadaigh? The patient is drugged. Legal Opinion Tuairim Dlí Freagraí chuig: (answers to)Bairbre Uí Theighneáin, Tá an t-othar faoi dhrugaí. Legal Counsel Comhairle Dlí Oifigeach Forbartha Gaeilge, Lár-Oifig, Limistéar Lár Tíre, Where can I find the new film Feidhmeannacht na Seirbhíse Sláinte, Bóthar Ardán, when the holder is empty? General Ginearálta Maternity and Infant Services Seirbhísí An Tulach Mhór, Co. Uíbh Fhailí. Cá bhfaighidh mé an scannán Máithreachais agus Naíonáin ( 0506 27746 / 086 8157342) nua nuair atá an coimeádán folamh? Assessment Measúnú SEANFHOCLA Where can I find the chemical / Bandages Bindealáin Is fuar an rud clú gan cara. the developer / the fixer? Fame without friends is a cheerless Cá bhfaighidh mé an ceimiceán Care of Elderly Cúram na Sean thing. /an réadóir / an fosaitheoir? Care of Travellers Cúram don Lucht Siúil An té a chailleas a chlú, Where can I find the patient’s previous cailleann sé a náire. films? Cá bhfaighidh mé Case Conference Cáschruinniú He who becomes lost to honour seanscannáin an othair? Case load Riar cásanna becomes lost to shame. Could you please help me lift this Choice of Doctor Scheme Cogadh carad caoi namhad. patient? An bhféadfá cabhrú liom an t- An Scéim Rogha Dochtúra Disunity plays into the hands of the othar seo a ardú? Clinical Referral Cur chuig clinic enemy. Counselling Comhairliú The patient was in pain and he / An té nach nglacann comhairle Bronnadh Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge ar Sinéad Uí Chonchubhair, she couldn’t cooperate further. Court Case Cás Cúirte glacfaidh sé comhrac. Alex Ó Cearbhaill, Helen Uí Mhaoldomhnaigh,Eilís Uí Bhí an t-othar i bpéin agus ní fhéadfadh He who will not yield to reason Chaonáin, Assumpta Nic an tSionnaigh agus Áine Ní hAirt! sé/sí comhoibriú a thuilleadh. Development of Community Based will yield to compulsion. Comhgháirdeas leo!

12 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News

HSE Midland Area Hosts International Conference on Integrated Care “Making Mortgages The Integrated Care Project together could have huge attending speaks volumes (ICON) developed by the benefits for patients as well about the need for integrated HSE Midland Area was as for resources. care and the passion of the singled out for particular Irish in searching for best easier in the Midlands” praise by the Tanaiste and “From the point of view of the practice and better care for Minister for Health Mary management of various patients”. Harney TD when she illness, the more people officially opened the 6th working together in an The conference was We shop around for the best mortgage for you International Conference on integrated way, the greater organised by the HSE Integrated care, in Dublin the quality of life for patients”, Midland Area in conjunction Castle. claimed the Tanaiste. with the Department of We find the best mortgage at the keenest rates Health and Children and The ICON model, which has She welcomed the fact that Igitur, Utrecht University been developed over the past so many people had come Publishing and Archiving three years, by the HSE together from different parts Services. Our Service is 100% Free Midland Area, will facilitate of the world to learn from multidisciplinary working, each other. Speakers at the conference whereby all professionals from the HSE Midland Area providing services to the “Systems of integrated care included Veronica Larkin, Ph.: 044 / 43033 or email same clients will share are now in their infancy but in Project Manager and Helen information, avoiding 20 years time they will be the Tucker who delivered a paper duplication and multiple files. norm for everybody,” on the Impact Assessment of [email protected] The outcomes for the concluded the Tanaiste. the ICON Model and Ms individual will be improved Marie Prendergast, Manager and patient confidentiality will As Dr Nick Goodwin, Occupational Health Sitting down with us = meeting 8 banks in the one go e.g. be maintained. Chairman of the International Services, Longford EBS/Ulster Bank/Bank of Ireland/Permanent TSB/ IIB/ICS/ACC & MBS Network of Integrated Care Westmeath. “I have knowledge of this remarked “With over 200 100% Mortgages Available For Medical Doctors & Physios project which is a very delegates from more than 15 Poster presentations were exciting project,” the Tanaiste countries, this conference given by Dr Lorcan Martin, told over 200 delegates from represents the best in Michael Byrne and Ryan Ace life & pension consultants ltd t/a The Mortgage Makers is regulated by the Irish Financial many different parts of the forward thinking about O’Neill from Psychology Services Regulatory Authority as a multi agency intermediary, a deposit broker and as a mortgage world including New Zealand. integration and health care Services, Pauline Dunne and intermediary. Your home is at risk if you do not keep up your repayments on it. services. The international Elmary Purtill from the Referring to the benefits of field of speakers and the Community Nutrition and an integrated system, the enthusiasm shown for Dietetic Service, and Eileen Tanaiste said that the value integrated care in the Dunphy from Clinical Audit. derived from people working numbers of delegates

A new transporter to help ferry clients and patients of Birr Community Care Centre was presented to Key Kennedy and her staff by Birr Lions Club and Birr Credit Union recently. Pictured at the International Integrated care Conference were from left to right: Pictured at the hand over of the vehicle were from l to r: Yvonne Claffey, Pat Connolly, Paul Eilish O’Neill; PHN Portarlington, Jacinta Joyce; Asst. Director Public Health Nursing, Darcy, Chairman Birr Credit Union, Kay Kennedy, Director of Nursing, Paul Boyd, President Birr Therese Kennedy; MIDOC Administrator, Liz Gorey; PHN Porlarlington. Lions Club and Matt De Forge of Birr Credit Union.

Policies Procedures and Guidelines Available for Staff Over the last year a tremendous amount of work and Operating Procedures (SOPs) onto the Intranet. “quality check” and forward them for publication on the effort by many departments within the HSE Midland Area Approved PPGs can be viewed at It is necessary when submitting current PPGs for review of Policies / Procedures / Guidelines (PPGs), many of “Our aim is to have a set of PPGs available for all that they conform to the new PPG Template, which can be which have been published on the HSE - Midland Area departments which can be viewed on the intranet,” downloaded from the website. Intranet. explained William Harding, Developer of Standards and For anyone unsure on how to start the process of There are a total of 325 PPGs already published to the Quality. writing PPGs in their area, a Process Flow Chart site, with over 50 more waiting to be added. HSE Midland “If you have any PPG’s Written/Approved in your area of which outlines a step-by-step approach can be Area Accreditation office and Freedom of Information responsibility that have not been published, please submit viewed at

13 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News Quality of Working Life Programme Support Persons SUPPORT CONTACT PERSONS The following staff have been trained to undertake the role of Support Contact Persons: The Quality of Working Life Employees will be provided with an Name Discipline Location Telephone: “Dignity at Work (Bullyproof) opportunity to discuss what is Sachin P. Sivanand Radiography Service Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise 0502 78165 Project Team” has developed a troubling them, as very often this Liam Bermingham Support Services Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore 0506 21501/Bleep 270 network of Support Contact allows for a person to feel more Grace O’Keeffe Laboratory Service Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore 0506 46138 Persons who have been trained to confident about addressing the Betty Walsh Nursing Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore 0506 21501/Ext. 6732 undertake their role as provided for problem rather than letting it Nancy Bennett Radiography Service Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise 0502 78165 under the Dignity at Work Policy. continue to fester. Padraig Murtagh Maintenance St. Loman’s Hospital, Mullingar 044 84350 The policy is designed to ensure a Explain the definitions of Mairead Hogan Nursing Midland Regional Hospital, Mullingar 044 40221/086 8157266 working environment where people bullying/harassment and explore David Fitzgerald Ambulance Service MRH Portlaoise 0502 78131/087 8522381 feel valued, recognised and safe, how an issue might best be Ailish Smyth Administration Dental Services, Health Centre Mullingar 044 39196 and where their dignity is supported addressed by assisting the Rosaleen HeavinSupportNursing Athlone Mental Health Services 0906 492969 and respected at all times. Details of employee to make an informed Elizabeth Carthy Administration Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore 0506 21501/Ext 6722 the role of the Support Contact choice about what action s/he may Eileen Byrne Nursing Out Patient Department, MRH Tullamore 0506 21501/Ext 8995 Person are set out in the policy. take to resolve the matter. The Catherine Smyth Public Health Nursing Health Centre, Clara 0506 31375/086 3851018 Support Contact Persons – The Contact Person will not make a Una Hegarty Dental Service St Vincent’s Hospital, Athlone 09064 75301 Role judgement as to whether or not the Liz Sweeney Administration HR Specialist Office, Acute Hospital Services 0506 28913 The Support Contact Person will; employee was bullied/harassed. Josephine RigneContacty Administration Regional Disability Services 0506 46277/086 8157850 Provide information in a confidential, Discussions are completely Carmel Sheerin Dental Service Health Centre, Tullamore 0506 46159 non-judgmental and off-the-record confidential and Support Persons Gerrita Russell Social Work Service Child & Family Centre, Portlaoise 0502 78236 discussion, to any employee who will not be requested to disclose Michelle Byrne Support Service Lough Sheever Centre, Mullingar 044 84362 feels that s/he is being information to a third party. The bullied/harassed or against whom a Contact Person will not retain any If you require further information in relation to the role of the Support Contact Person please contact: Kay Slevin, complaint of bullying/harassment notes or records of these Human Resources Department at 0506 46107– e-mail [email protected] has been made. discussions. However, in a crisis Persons Listen patiently and offer support situation of potential danger (e.g. and advice on issues relating to assault or risk of suicide) the Human workplace bullying/harassment. Resources Department should be The role does not extend to any contacted so that appropriate other forms of workplace grievances professional assistance can be or personal problems. sought. Peer Support Service Launched The HSE Midland Area is proud to meeting to help alleviate the distress Support Contact Persons announce the launch of the Peer and to provide referral information if Support Service for Staff. This needed. initiative, which is funded by It is not counselling or psychotherapy, Peer Supporters Partnership, was developed by the but a specific structured intervention Work Life Balance Project Group and designed to help the staff member to Name Discipline Location Telephone is one of the key actions being avail of immediate support and Martina Bannon Mgt/Admin Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore. 0506 46140 undertaken to address the information. Kate Brickley Healthcare Risk Mgt. Clonminch,Tullamore. 0506 57943/ 086 8157205 recommendations of the ‘Quality of To assist in supporting staff Mary Burke Nursing Community Nursing Unit, Birr. 0509 23200 Working Life’ Survey. immediately following a critical Alberto Candeias Maintenance Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore. 086 3922719 One of the findings’ of the Quality of incident in the workplace Paul Crowley Laboratory Service Midland Regional Hospital, Mullingar. 044 39155 Working Life Survey was that staff Peer Supporter role is concerned with reported receiving a high level of providing support and practical help Ciara Derry Mgt/Admin Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore. 0506 27781 social support from their colleagues to staff and managers immediately Edel Dunphy Speech & Language MRH, Portlaoise. 0502 78183 and managers. The Peer Support following a critical incident Jennifer Garry ISS Department Clonminch, Tullamore. 087 6460926 initiative is designed to enhance the and to ensure that the necessary Don Gibney Mgt/Admin Primary Care Unit, Springfield, 044 84427 support systems that exist at present steps are followed in relation to staff Padraig Glynn Ambulance Service Portlaoise. 086 6595319 and to add a more formal level of welfare. support to the informal level that How can the Peer Support Service Majella Gorman Mgt/Admin Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore. 0506 46147 MajelPeerla Heavin Community M entaSupportl Health Nursing Psychiatry of Old Age, Portlaoise. 0502 70245 already exists. be accessed? How does the Peer Supporter A list of Peer Supporters is set out Finola Henry Mgt/Admin Health Centre, Tullamore. 086 3650513 System work? below. This list is also available from Lily Kavanagh Community Health Primary Health Care,Tullamore. 0506 24099 The Peer Supporters are based the Employee Assistance Service Michael Kearns Maintenance Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore. 086 3872752 throughout the region and can be and will be displayed in locations Margaret Lowney Nursing St Vincent’s Hospital, Mountmellick. 0502 44785 accessed personally or by telephone. throughout the region. They have two specific functions: This initiative provides staff supports Marie McCafferkey Nursing Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore. 0506 46203 To assist a staff member who may in addition to those already available Brege McCarrick Disability Services Health Centre Mullingar 044 39177 be experiencing distress. and accessible through the Employee Sarah McDonagh Community Health Primary Health Care, Tullamore. 0506 24099 Peer Supporters can provide one-on- Assistance Service including Mary Meehan Mgt/Admin Child Care Unit, Clonminch, Tullamore. 0506 57837 one support to staff who are Counselling Services, Critical Incident Ethna Moran Public Health Nursing Health Centre, Tullamore. 0506 41301 experiencing distress. This support is Debriefing Services and Advice and Fiona Murtagh Histopathology Department Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore. 0506 46135 provided on a c o n f i d e n t i a l Guidance for Managers and Staff on basis and consists of a once-off staff welfare issues. Marie Nolan Mgt/Admin Primary Care Unit, Mullingar. 044 84429 Una O’Malley Mgt/Admin Health Promotion, Clonminch, 0506 57811 Evelyn Pyke Support Services Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore. 0506 21150 Maura Quaine Nursing Midland Regional Hospital, Mullingar. 044 39125 Elizabeth Ryan Haematology Department, Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise. 0502 78149 Fiona Sherriff Child Care Services Aisling House, Edgeworthstown. 043 71236 Finola Shiel Cardiac Rehab Services Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise. 0502 21364 Cassie Staunton Family Support Social Work Department, Tullamore. 0506 22488 Liam Tierney Nursing Ashford House, Longford. 043 46779 Eddie Ward Health Promotion Department, Longford. 043 42031 Jean Wellwood Microbiology Department Midland Regional Hospital, Mullingar. 044 39157

If you require further information in relation to the role of Peer Supporter please contact: Mary Dwyer, Employee Assistance Manager, Employee Assistance Service 0506 28033– e-mail [email protected] Peer Support Group

14 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News

APPOINTMENTS...APPOINTMENTS...APPOINTMENTS...APPOINTMENTS...APPOINTMENTS

MANAGEMENT/ADMINISTRATION Name Grade Location Ms. Mary Howe Catering Attendant MRH, Portlaoise Name Grade Location Ms. Jean Frances Greene Catering Attendant MRH, Portlaoise Mr. William Harding Staff Officer (Grade V) Corporate Fitness Ms. Susan Carter Catering Attendant MRH, Portlaoise Mr. Greg Keenan Catering Attendant MRH, Portlaoise MEDICAL / NURSING Ms. Lucy Kelly Catering Attendant MRH, Portlaoise Name Grade Location Ms. Margaret O’Keeffe Catering Attendant MRH, Portlaoise Ms. Noeline Delahunty Staff Nurse Community Nursing Unit, Ms. Kathleen Bowe Catering Attendant MRH, Portlaoise Abbeyleix, Co. Laois Ms. Esther Troy Catering Attendant MRH, Portlaoise Ms. Catherine McNamara Staff Nurse MRH @ Mullingar Ms. Geraldine Whelan Catering Attendant MRH, Portlaoise Ms. Lorna Bollard Staff Nurse MRH @ Mullingar Ms. Fiona Baldwin Catering Attendant MRH, Portlaoise Ms. Fay Allen Staff Nurse MRH@Tullamore Ms. Marion McNamee Catering Attendant MRH, Portlaoise Ms. Kerrie Martin Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Anastasia Madden Attendant Community Residence, Birr Sector. Ms. Lucy Nugent Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Celina Casey Child Care Worker Child Residential Services Ms. Bernie Teehan Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Clodagh Armitage Health Promotion Worker Health Promotion Ms. Audrey O’Sullivan Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Caroline Daly Attendant St Josephs Hospital Ms. Carol Galvin Staff Nurse MRH @ Mullingar Ms. Margaret Fox Attendant St Josephs Hospital Ms. Bernadette Duffy Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Kathleen McNally Attendant St Josephs Hospital Ms. Tracy Delea Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Loretta Greally Attendant St Josephs Hospital Ms. Charlotte Deffew Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Paula Mullen Attendant St Josephs Hospital Ms. Fiona McFarlane Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Angela O’Connor Attendant St Josephs Hospital Ms. Elaine Guilfoyle Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Caroline Daly Attendant St Josephs Hospital Ms. Margaret O’Connor Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Mr. Gerard Roache General Operative St Fintans Hospital Ms. Niamh Mooney Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Karen Heavey Health Promotion Worker Health Promotion Ms. Siobhan Duffy Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Judith Sylvester Child Care Worker Child Residential Services Ms. Linda Sinnott Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Mairead Shine Child Care Worker Child Residential Services Ms. Mairead Martin Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Olive Hynes Child Care Worker Child Residential Services. Ms. Louise North Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Fiona Cruise Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore PARAMEDICAL Ms. Ann Marie Cahill Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Patrice Patton Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Name Grade Location Ms. Hilary Williamson Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Mr. Edward Casey Basic Grade Medical Scientist MRH @ Tullamore (Haematology) Ms. Mary Brennan Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Deirdre Holden Basic Grade Psychologist Laois Area Ms. Ann-Marie Fitzpatrick Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Lorraine Dooley Professionally Qualified Social Worker Laois/Offaly Area Ms. Helen McEvoy Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Elaine Flynn Basic Grade Pharmaceutical Technician MRH@Tullamore Ms. Elaine McGuinness Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Grainne Rogers Basic Grade Speech & Language Therapist L/W Area Ms. Gillian Roe Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Mary Margaret Daly Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Aisling Harrington Basic Grade Medical Scientist MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Sandra Craig Staff Nurse – Oncology MRH @ Tullamore Mr. John Sugrue Basic Grade Physiotherapist St. Vincent’s, Mountmellick. Mrs. Barbara Cleary Staff Nurse MRH @ Mullingar Ms. Danielle Stenson Senior Occupational Therapist L/W Area Mrs. Dolores O’Sullivan Staff Nurse- Theatre MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Susan O’Neill Basic Grade Occupational Therapist Acute Care, L/W Area Ms. Eleanor Connolly Staff Nurse – Paediatric MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Cindy Padiachy Senior Occupational Therapist Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Portlaoise. Mr. Ms. Catriona Brennan Staff Nurse – Paediatric MRH @ Portlaoise Michael Kevin Gardiner Senior Occupational Therapist Adult Mental Health. Ms. Niamh Sheridan Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Mr. Thomas Hesketh Basic Grade Medical Scientist MRH @ Mullingar Ms. Pauline McWey Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Emer Beirne Basic Grade Medical Scientist MRH @ Mullingar Ms. Eleanor Naughton Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Elaine Guinan Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore PROMOTIONS Ms. Sabrina Coughlan Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Assumpta Casey Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise MANAGEMENT/ADMINISTRATION Ms. Olivia Foster Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Martina Kilshaw CNM II MRH @ Portlaoise Name Grade Location Ms. Aisling Claffey Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Bernadette Williams- Medical Secretary - Grade IV MRH @ Portlaoise Devlin. Ms. Mary O’Meara-Whelan Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Mr Jonathan Egan Director of Counselling National Counselling Service Ms. Cora Kinsella Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Mr. Robert Morton Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer Ambulance Headquarters Ms. Gayle Metcalfe Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Patricia O’Sullivan Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise MEDICAL / NURSING Ms. Fiona McFarlane Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Bernadette Duffy Staff Nurse MRH @ Portlaoise Name Grade Location Ms. Linda Sinnott Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Louise Coward CNM 1 MRH @ Mullingar Ms. Claire Foley Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Ethel Murphy CNM 1 MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Audrey Gunning Staff Nurse MRH @ Mullingar Ms. Rosaleen Lyons CNMI Lough Sheever Centre, Mullingar Mr. Matthew Lambden Staff Nurse Lough Sheever Centre, Mullingar. Mrs. Anne Dunne CNMII St. Mary’s Care Centre, Mullingar Ms. Audrey Quinn Staff Nurse Riada House, Tullamore. Ms. Bernadette Gavin Senior Public Health Nurse L/W Community Care Ms. Ann Marie Hannon Regional H.I.P.E. Co – Ordinator Acute Hospital Services. Ms. Catherine Corcoran CNM 1 Riada House, Tullamore Mr. Emmet Conroy Staff Nurse St. Vincent’s Hospital, Mountmellick. Ms. Maureen C. McLoughlin CNM 1 Riada House, Tullamore Ms. Nicola McCormarck Staff Nurse St. Vincent’s Hospital, Mountmellick. Ms. Mary Slattery CNM III MRH Tullamore Ms. Mairéad Sheerin CNM II Lough Sheever Centre. Ms. Deborah Ryan CNM II St. Vincent’s Hospital, Mountmellick NON - NURSING Mrs. Mai Murphy CNS-Palliative Care L/O Community Care Name Grade Location Ms. Bernadette Parsons CNM 1 MRH @ Portlaoise Ms Margaret Gaffney Ward Attendant St Peters Care Centre Ms. Margaret Lowney CNM 2 St. Vincent’s Hospital, Mountmellick. Ms Bernadette Noonan Care Assistant St Peters Care Centre Ms. Teresa Coman CNM 2 St. Vincent’s Hospital, Mountmellick. Ms Christina Lynch Care Assistant St Peters Care Centre Ms. Therese Cotter Lactation Clinical Nurse Specialist MRH@Portlaoise Ms Antoinette Sheridan Child Care Worker Longford/Westmeath Ms Anne McFadden Attendant Birchwood Hse, T’more Ms Noelle Goode Attendant St Fintans Hospital PARAMEDICAL Ms Patricia Carroll Attendant St Fintans Hospital Ms Marie Healy Attendant St Fintans Hospital Name Grade Location Mr Joseph Mulhare Attendant St Fintans Hospital Ms. Amber Foley Senior Occupational Ms. Caitriona Feighery Attendant CNU, Birr, Co. Offaly Primary Care, Therapist Portarlington MS. MADGE MURPHY ATTENDANT CNU, BIRR, CO. OFFALY Ms. Colette O’Hanlon Senior Occupational Paediatrics, THERAPIST LAOIS/OFFALY Ms. Maria O’Donoghue Attendant CNU, Birr, Co. Offaly MS. MICHAELA DRUMMOND SENIOR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST LAOIS/OFFALY Ms. Michelle Mullins Attendant CNU, Birr, Co. Offaly MS. THERESA FOLEY SENIOR DIETICIAN – RENAL DIALYSIS MRH @ TULLAMORE Ms. Caroline Corboy Attendant CNU, Birr, Co. Offaly MS. MAIREAD CAREY SENIOR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST EPISODIC CARE, TULLAMORE. Ms. Anna Grennan Attendant CNU, Birr, Co. Offaly MS. ANN CUNNINGHAM CHIEF 1 CARDIAC TECHNICIAN MRH @ TULLAMORE Ms. Paula McGarry Attendant CNU, Birr, Co. Offaly Ms. Aisling Burke Social Worker Laois/Offaly Area Ms. Lisa Duffy Social Worker Laois/Offaly Area NON - NURSING Ms. Edel Kane Care Assistant Teach Solas Ms. Carmel Gilliard Community Rehab Assistant Longford Leader House Ms. Jackie Finglas Attendant St Marys Care Centre RESIGNATIONS / RETIREMENTS Ms. Florence Dowling Attendant St Marys Care Centre Ms. Deirdre Fivey Walsh Attendant St Marys Care Centre MANAGEMENT/ADMINISTRATION Ms. Sarah O’Reilly Attendant St Marys Care Centre Mr. Joseph McNally Care Assistant St Peters Care Centre Name Grade Location Ms. Shirley McLoughlin Attendant St Peters Care Centre Ms. Frances O’Grady Clerical Officer MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Petra Geraghty Care Assistant St Peters Care Centre Ms. Maureen Forde Clerical Officer MRH @ Portlaoise Ms. Mary Bardon Care Assistant St Peters Care Centre Ms. Barbara Mills Care Assistant St Peters Care Centre PARAMEDICAL Ms. Omolola Olanrewaju Attendant St Marys Care Centre Ms. Lynn Connor Attendant St Marys Care Centre Name Grade Location Ms. Bridget Harten Attendant St Marys Care Centre Ms. Bridie Sheerin Child Care Worker Children Services Ms. Barbara Fitzpatrick Attendant Community Residence, Birr Sector. Ms. Patricia Murtagh Attendant St Peters Care Centre NURSING Ms. Catherine Lawlor Attendant St Fintans Hospital Ms. Ann Kelly Attendant St Fintans Hospital Name Grade Location Ms. Joan Walsh Attendant St Fintans Hospital Ms. Elizabeth O’Sullivan Staff Nurse MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Kathleen Ryan Attendant St Fintans Hospital Ms. Ita Farrell Psychiatric Nurse Disability Serv. L/W Mr. Edwin Ward Health Promotion Worker(Grade V) Health Promotion Ms. Ann Donnelly Home Help Community Services. Longford Ms. Joan Tierney Health Promotion Worker(Grade V) Health Promotion Ms. Rita Quirke Staff Nurse CNU, Abbeyleix Ms. Bernadette O’Dowd Attendant St Josephs Hospital Ms. Antoinette Dunne Staff Nurse CNU, Edenderry Ms. Kathleen Mulvaney Care Assistant St Peters Care Centre Ms. Mary Fivey Staff Nurse St. Peter’s Castlepollard Ms. Loretta Greally Attendant St Josephs Hospital Ms. Rita Bennett Staff Nurse Lough Sheever, Mullingar Ms. Mary Marley Attendant St Josephs Hospital Ms. Teresa Feery Staff Nurse Health Centre, Tullamore Ms. Marion Cunningham Attendant St Josephs Hospital Ms. Mary B. Mitchell Staff Nurse St. Joseph’s, Longford Mr. Noel Farrell Attendant St Josephs Hospital Ms. Rose Lennon Staff Nurse St. Peter’s, Castlepollard Ms. Geraldine Coffey Attendant St Josephs Hospital Ms. Brenda Lennon Attendant St Josephs Hospital MEDICAL Ms. Kathleen Deegan Attendant St Fintans Hospital Ms. Sharon McDonald Attendant CNU, Birr NON - NURSING Ms. Evelyn Bell Attendant CNU, Birr Mr. James Wrafter Carpenter MRH @ Tullamore Name Grade Location Mr. Barry Lambe Health Promotion Worker(Grade V) Health Promotion Mr. Damien Owens Attendant MRH @ Tullamore Ms. Grainne Monaghan Health Promotion Worker(Grade V) Health Promotion Mr. Brendan O’Gorman Craftsman MRH @ Tullamore Mr. Richard Walsh Driver – Waste Collection St. Lomans Mullingar Mr. Paddy Whelehan Maintenance Supervisor MRH @ Mullingar

15 Nuacht an Limistéar Lár Tíre Midland Area News COMMUNITY CARE CENTRE IN BIRR OFFICIAL OPENING Mr Brian Cowen TD, Minister for Finance, officially opened the state of the art Community Care Centre in Birr. He is pictured here meeting with staff and clients of the Centre on the day.

Speaking on the day, Ms Breda Crehan Roche, A/Asst Chief Officer of the HSE Midland Area said “The design team took this and many other factors on board. They consulted widely with staff, the brief for the Community Care Centre project sought that the buildings should provide for: patients, clients and other interested parties. The result of their endeavours is this excellent facility standing on nine acres of land with a sloped green belt running down to the Camcur River. This • A quiet and restful atmosphere free from noise property is valued at Û20 million and it is a credit to all involved. It is a source of pride that • A stimulating and interactive environment for clients, particularly those in the Community Nursing something of this magnitude was accomplished on time and within budget. Unit • That Residents should be able to observe the daily “comings and goings”, something that was not “Today Minister Cowen, officially opens this Community Care Centre which provides ‘State of the always possible in other centres Art’ Health and Personal Social Services, for the population of Birr and its environs.” • And the need to provide for Natural lighting and ventilation

16