Letter to the Editor: Meath people are being treated unjustly over A&E plans

(Editor, Meath Chronicle)

Dear Sir,

Meath people are being treated unjustly. It is the right of each one of us to have access to emergency healthcare in a timely manner.

We deserve a functioning hospital with a functioning A&E. Having a local hospital in a county the size of Meath and a population in excess of 220,000 is not a luxury but a necessity. It is the difference between life and death for many and ensures the best health outcomes for all.

The four ICU beds in Navan Hospital are crucial and act as a backup in the event of any patient deteriorating.

Our TDs, councillors and senators need to listen to the people that voted them into their positions of responsibility. It’s not acceptable, that some of them ignore the will of the people on the critical issue of the hospital service. Thankfully there are some public representatives working extremely hard. If everyone pulled together we could have one of the best regional hospitals in Ireland.

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much – Helen Keller."

It’s very concerning, to see the lack of regard that the HSE/ Department of Health, have for the more vulnerable people in Ireland – it is unacceptable to have them sitting in ambulances, waiting on chairs and lying on trolleys for hours on end.

It is an affront to their dignity and a risk to their health.

They deserve optimal care

The HSE should not be allowed to bully.

We can never stop fighting, for the most essential piece of infrastructure i.e. a regional hospital.

Thank you to all the people, that have campaigned over the years to secure vital hospital services for Co Meath. The goal to save Navan A&E is achievable. The people have the power when they get involved and become activists. The further downgrading of Navan hospital is not a done deal.

The confusion and poor communication between the Minister for Health and the HSE is reckless and a cause for major concern. They need to come to their senses and properly resource Navan hospital to a standard that delivers excellent healthcare and of which everyone can be proud of.

Yours

Mary Crahan

Navan