HSE Launches External Reviews into Portiuncula University Hospital Maternity Services
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has announced external reviews into the delivery of nine babies at Portiuncula University Hospital in Galway. This comes after a series of concerning incidents involving babies born with hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE).
Incidents Involving Hypoxic Ischaemic Encephalopathy
Since last year, seven babies have been diagnosed with HIE, a condition resulting from reduced oxygen supply to the brain. Six of these infants were referred for neonatal cooling, a therapeutic approach that aims to prevent further brain damage. The care provided during these deliveries is also under review.
External Reviews and New Management
The Health Service Executive has confirmed six cases of HIE in 2024 and one in 2025, figures significantly higher than national and international averages. In response, a highly experienced management team has been appointed to oversee the maternity services at Portiuncula Hospital. This team, led by external consultant obstetrician Dr Mark Skehan, will ensure all aspects of maternity, gynaecology, and neonatal services are managed effectively. Dr Skehan’s team will report directly to the HSE West and North West regional management.
Apology and Action Plan
In a statement, Regional Clinical Director of HSE West and North West, Dr Pat Nash, apologized to the women and families affected by the recent incidents, emphasizing the need for safe and reliable maternity care at Portiuncula Hospital. Dr Nash highlighted the appointment of new management as a step towards ensuring that the service meets the highest standards of safety for all mothers and their babies.
Historical Context and Critical Report
The need for enhanced maternal care services at Portiuncula University Hospital is not new. A 2018 report into the maternity services at PUH, commissioned in January 2015, was critical of the hospital’s communication among maternity staff and the lack of skills and training to handle emergency cases. The review found that care during normal situations was commendable, but responses to deteriorating conditions were often delayed and inadequate. The report also identified issues with skills in fetal heart rate monitoring (CTGs) and ultrasound scanning.
Department of Health’s ResponseDepartment of Health’s Response
New Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, has expressed her concern over the situation at Portiuncula University Hospital. In her statement, she emphasized the paramount importance of patient safety and commended the appointment of a new management team. The Minister also highlighted the strong focus on neonatal care and patient safety outlined in the government’s Programme for Government.
Contact Information for Women Attending the Maternity Unit
Women attending the maternity unit and with any questions can contact the HSE on 1800 807 008. This ensures that expecting mothers and their families have a clear line of communication and support during this critical time.
Conclusion
The external reviews and the formation of a new management team represent significant steps towards improving the quality and safety of maternity services at Portiuncula University Hospital. The HSE and the Department of Health are clearly committed to addressing the concerns raised by recent incidents and ensuring that all patients receive the best possible care.
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Women attending the maternity unit and who have questions can contact the HSE on 1800 807 008.