48 new beds for MRH Mullingar
Forty eight new beds for Midlands Regional Hospital Mullingar are to be delivered between now and 2031.
The new beds planned for MRH Mullingar are part of a new hospital bed expansion plan by the HSE, which aims to deliver 4,367 acute hospital in-patient beds by 2031.
This includes 3,352 new beds, with the location of these new beds mapped across the six regional health areas. The 3,352 new beds, includes 2,997 net additional beds, as well as 355 replacement beds. These new beds are in addition to the 1,015 beds already under construction or previously committed.
The delivery of 48 new beds at MRH Mullingar will have a positive impact on communities across Westmeath, Minister Peter Burke has said.
“The fact people are living longer and healthier lives is a positive reflection of our health service, but we need to plan and prepare as we require more healthcare and the need to keep up with medical advancements. This is exactly what Fine Gael in government are doing,” added Minister Burke.
Also commenting on the announcement, Cllr Andrew Duncan said: “With an ageing and growing population, it is critical that our health service can cater for the needs of families and individuals living in Mullingar and its environs.
“I am delighted to confirm that these new acute beds will be delivered between March 2025 and 2031.
“We have all had, or know someone, who has had experiences in the hospital and capacity is really an issue that needs to be tackled.
“We need to realise our growing population needs to be served by a health service fit for purpose and these additional beds will I hope improve accessibility and reduce waiting times for patients who need this vital care. It will also improve conditions for staff, which is vital for retention of skilled workers.
“The reality is that waiting lists have fallen for the past two years. The average number of patients on trolleys is also falling and many of our hospitals have made enormous progress. It is true that reform and review are also an important part of the process in the Health Service and this needs to be addressed,” concluded Cllr Duncan.