Fergal Bowers

Health Correspondent

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 • 1 hr

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 • 13 hrs

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

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

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

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

Pandemic had no lasting impact on cancer survival - study

There is no evidence of a lasting impact on early cancer survival or mortality in Ireland due to the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, a new study has found.

Health • 10 Dec

HIQA says immunising all infants would cost the HSE up to €60m in first five years

Cost of national RSV vaccine scheme 'substantial' - HIQA

HIQA has launched a public consultation on its draft health technology assessment of immunisation against the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

Health • 09 Dec

HSE did not offer enhanced flu vaccine for over 65s

The HSE did not offer an enhanced influenza vaccine for people aged 65 years and older this season as it was not deemed cost-effective.

Health • 08 Dec

Weight-loss drug overpriced for public patients - study

A new study for the HSE has found that making the weight loss drug Mounjaro available to public patients would not be value for money at the current price.

Health • 04 Dec