Fergal Bowers

Health Correspondent

Waiting lists up by 86,300 patients in 2025, figures show

National hospital waiting lists increased by over 86,300 patients last year, new figures show.

Health • 2 hrs

Out of hours palliative care needs to be improved - widow

A widow has said that while the hospice system is a fantastic service, out-of-hours support services need improvement.

Health • 08 Jan

Major investment in palliative care services needed - IHF

Ireland is facing a potential future crisis in end of life care and support for people who are bereaved without targeted investment and planning, according to a new report by the Irish Hospice Foundation.

Health • 08 Jan

Over-the-shoulder view of an unrecognizable woman looking at the thermometer because she is sick while sitting on the sofa covered with a blanket.

Flu figures remain high, says HSE

It is likely that flu activity peaked before Christmas, the HSE has said, but figures remain high with 2,049 cases recorded in the week to last Saturday.

Health • 07 Jan

Portiuncula serves east Galway, Westmeath, north Tipperary, Roscommon and Offaly and was managing around 1,300 births a year

No plans to close Portiuncula maternity unit - HSE chief

There are no plans to close the Portiuncula University Hospital maternity unit, the CEO of the Health Service Executive has said.

Health • 17 Dec 25

HSE probing €712k in duplicate pandemic bonus payments

A HSE internal audit of the Pandemic Special Payment said there were notable control weaknesses and governance gaps that should inform future crisis response payment schemes.

Health • 17 Dec 25

Flu cases to peak during Christmas week, HSE expects

The HSE has said that it expects flu cases to peak during Christmas week, but that the rate of growth is slowing.

Health • 16 Dec 25

Wayne Garrett using the exoskeleton device

Wheelchair user says exoskeleton experience 'incredible'

A wheelchair user from Co Down has described as "incredible" the awareness of movement and sensation felt when using a robotic exoskeleton device.

Health • 16 Dec 25

A vaccine vial and syringe placed on a table, representing the concept of annual vaccinations

Challenging period ahead as flu season gathers pace

Ireland has experienced bad influenza seasons before, and the weeks ahead are shaping up to offer a testing season of festive flu and colds. The flu this winter has come a few weeks early and is mainly being driven by a mutated A(H3N2) virus. Seasons that start early, tend to be more severe.

Analysis and Comment • 14 Dec 25

a pregnant woman with her hands on her stomach

Women want better communication on labour, birth - survey

Better communication about labour and birth, along with more post-natal support, are among the issues raised by women in a new survey on maternity care.

Health • 10 Dec 25