Speaking after a meeting with a delegation from Omagh District Council, where he was presented with the Council’s 12 Point Plan for the new hospital, the Minister confirmed that a wide range of services would be available in the enhanced local hospital in Omagh.
He said, “I am committed to providing high quality and accessible services to the people in the south west. The provision of an acute hospital north of Enniskillen and an enhanced local hospital at Omagh will secure high quality, state-of-the-art health facilities. I confirmed again today that I am confident that the range of services offered at the enhanced local hospital in Omagh, will in conjunction with community and primary care, meet the vast majority of needs of the local population.
“I have already committed to a number of services outlined in the Council’s 12 point plan such a consultant led 24/7 Urgent Care and Treatment Centre, day case surgery, renal dialysis and inpatient beds. I have also commissioned a review into ambulance service provision in Fermanagh and West Tyrone, as well a feasibility study for a midwife led maternity unit, and I expect to make an announcement on these in the very near future.”
The Minister listened carefully to the Council’s proposals and gave an assurance that he would respond as soon as possible.
The Minister said, “I welcome the opportunity to discuss this important issue with representatives from Omagh District Council. I know that there are some concerns in the local population on the future of health services in Omagh. I would therefore encourage Omagh Council to work closely with the Western Board and Trust to help share the future of health services for their local population.”
Notes to Editors:
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