Health Minister officially opens Banagher Primary Care Centre
Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill has today (Thursday) visited and officially opened the state-of-the-art HSE Primary Care Centre in Banagher.
The centre which is 1,737 sq. metres and operational since January 2021 provides a range of health services including Primary Care Services, Mental Health Services, GP Suite with health associated offices and staff facilities.
During her visit, the Minister met with key health providers including GPs and the Chronic Disease team located within the Primary Care Centre who aim to deliver care close to home and in a coordinated way for those with Type II Diabetes, Cardiovascular disease, COPD and Asthma.
"Today's visit to Offaly and this impressive new Primary Care Centre in Banagher highlights our commitment to bringing integrated, high-quality healthcare directly to people's doorsteps," she commented.
"This centre, together with the Enhanced Community Care initiatives available, like the Chronic Disease Management, is making a real difference thanks to the dedication of the local HSE staff, GPs, and Primary Care Teams across Offaly and the Midlands."
Donal Fitzsimons, Acting Integrated Health Area Manager for the Midlands area welcomed the Minister and invited guests to officially open the Primary Care Centre.
Mr Fitzsimons acknowledged the work of the local GPs and the wider community and elected representatives who play a vital role in developing primary care infrastructure
"These services are designed and built to allow us fully integrate our health services and meet the needs of our population closer to home. We are committed to work with healthcare partners to further enhance patient experiences, ensure value for money and pride in the community," he said.
Joseph Ruane, Head of Services for Primary Care in IHA Midlands added: "I would like to thank the Minister for coming to see and officially open Banagher Primary Care Centre today. The people of Banagher are very proud of this facility.
"I would also like to acknowledge the work and commitment of the GP community here in Banagher. Dr Velma Harkins, who has recently retired, but was instrumental in the delivery of this primary care centre and Dr Shane Carroll, who has his practice and continues to work with us.
"We are very privileged to work in healthcare and to have an opportunity to enhance and improve how the community receives health services. The HSE are committed to advancing integrated care for Banagher and the wider Midlands area," Mr Ruane concluded.