Lack of cardiologists is delaying vital surgeries

STAFF shortages in the cardiac department of St Luke’s General Hospital in Kilkenny is forcing some patients’ vital surgeries to be delayed.

The Nationalist was contacted by members of the public this week who are experiencing ongoing delays in their much-needed surgeries, because they simply cannot secure an appointment with a consultant cardiologist.

Often these patients are not waiting on heart procedures but do need certification from a cardiologist to ensure that they are medically fit to undergo surgery. 

For many, without their long-awaited surgery their quality of life is suffering.

“I’m two years waiting at this stage. My pre-op is done but I just can’t get in to a cardiologist,” said one woman, who did not wished to be named.

“I’m sick every day with the problem I have and need to have that surgery. All they say is we’re sorry and my surgery is delayed, but it’s gone on so long at this stage,” she added.

The Nationalist understands that a consultant in the cardiac department has recently retired and has not yet been replaced, which is causing further pressure on the service.

“I just think this needs to be highlighted – you can’t leave people like that waiting months and maybe years for surgery that they really need,” said one woman.

When contacted, St Luke’s General Hospital indicated that increased demand on the cardiac department is also an issue.

'Like many services in St Luke’s General Hospital in recent times, the cardiac department has seen a large increase in the number of patients attending the service looking for treatment,' a statement read.

'This has meant an increase in waiting times for certain procedures within the cardiac department. Some staff have left the service in recent times. However, two cardiologists are due to start in August. This will help alleviate some of the demand and pressure on the service,' the statement concluded.