'Full Capacity Protocol' implemented at Mullingar hospital

Statement from Ireland East Hospital Group

Regional Hospital Mullingar continues to be extremely busy with many seriously ill patients, many of whom are over 75 years of age and have a variety of complex healthcare needs.

We apologise for the distress and inconvenience caused to patients or their loved ones who are experiencing long waiting times.

The Full Capacity Protocol has been implemented consultants are doing additional ward rounds to facilitate discharges. We are working with the community to discharge patients where it is appropriate.

The hospital is asking that people think about all their care and treatment options, the length of time you may be waiting in ED should you not require urgent care and we would ask that people keep our ED services for the patients who need them most.

However, if you are seriously injured or ill the ED will assess and treat you as a priority.

We ask the public to please adhere to all public health guidance and wear a face covering and keep socially distanced and to wash your hands frequently.