Concern raised over lack of Inishowen NoWDOC resources

Concerns have been raised over the lack of resources of Inishowen's NoWDOC resources.

Carndonagh-based councillor Albert Doherty urged the HSE to provide more cover for the NoWDOC service across the peninsula.

Cllr Doherty raised the issue at this week's meeting of the Regional Health Forum West.

The Sinn Féín councillor highlighted the recent Bank Holiday weekend, which seen a surge in calls for the service. He said the provision of one GP was “insufficient” saying there was a “community health and care deficit.”

He asked if the HSE ensure that the provision of an adequate and sufficient GP complement is assured and in situ for delivery of NowDoc services in Inishowen with immediate effect.

In a written response Dermot Monaghan, Chief Officer, Community Healthcare Organisation said there are six GPs on duty to cover the NoWDOC service in Donegal, one of whom is based in Cardonagh to see patients in the CareDoc Centre and deal with any home visits in that area.

Mr Monaghan said: “Due to the increase in the number of calls being received the week prior to the Bank Holiday weekend, the HSE agreed to fund an additional GP to cover the Bank Holiday weekend in Carndonagh.

“The HSE continues to monitor the volume of calls being received into the centre on an ongoing basis and during periods of peak activity additional resources, are put in place where required in the service.”