Monday, February 16, 2015

New unit in train for St Vincent's

Kilcullen people will welcome news that plans are progressing for a new 100-bed unit at St Vincent's Hospital in Athy, which will include dementia-specific beds and a day-care facility.

The Hospital has traditionally looked after many Kilcullen people who need such care in old age.

According to Martin Heydon TD, it is estimated that the design process will take 18 months with a further 18 months required for construction.

“New HIQA guidelines mean that facilities such as St Vincent's will need significant investment to comply with the standards," he said today. "Confirmation from the HSE and the Minister that plans for this investment are progressing is great news for Athy. This will be an investment in the provision of health care for the ageing population of South Kildare and will also secure an institution that is one of the largest employers in the town."