15/03/2007

Changed approach to providing critical care

An important new approach to critical care services was marked today by the launch of a Managed Clinical Network for Critical Care.

Critical Care is a highly specialised service provided to patients with life threatening conditions. It is a service on which there are considerable demands and on occasions all bed in hospital throughout Northern Ireland will be fully occupied.

In launching the network, Dr Miriam McCarthy, Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, said: “Critical care is a highly specialised service, provided for the very sickest patients. In Northern Ireland we have almost 100 critical care beds and it is important that they are used to best effect. By ensuring the best use of all critical care resources across Northern Ireland those patients who are the who are the most vulnerable and in need, will benefit.”

Dr Michael McBride, Chief Medical Officer, opened proceedings and said: “It is important that patients have the same access to treatment no matter where they live or what hospital they are being treated in.

“We must ensure that we make the best use of our resources and services across the region.

“What makes the network, health an social care professionals can make best use of the resources available and ensure that the very best care is provided to patients.”

The Department has recognised the value and potential of the Critical Care Network and has made additional funding of £125,000 available to help support the development of the Network.

(JM/SP)

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