Mayo primary care centre delay won't result in extra costs for HSE
THE delay in delivering the new primary care centre in Ballyhaunis won't result in extra costs for the HSE.
The financial situation was queried by Councillor Alma Gallagher at a HSE West Forum meeting.
She was told there is no additional cost to the HSE due to the overrun on delivery of the facility.
The HSE is leasing the centre from the developer; rental rates and service charges have not changed in this time.
Equipping costs are not fully known at this stage as this is currently being coordinated.
Meanwhile, up to 14 staff will be based in the centre, Councillor Gallagher was told in written responses to questions raised by her.
Ballyhaunis Primary Care Centre will include accommodation for existing staff and services, including staff currently based in Ballyhaunis Health Centre and some services currently based in Claremorris PCC. This will enable services such as speech and language therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, dental, public health nursing to be delivered locally and closer to the patient.
There will be no additional staff recruited, Councillor Gallagher was informed. Existing staff will transfer to the new PCC. Visiting clinics will be facilitated through bookable clinic rooms.
Reception arrangements are being considered, utilising existing clerical administrative support attached to the Ballyhaunis primary care team. Additionally, it is anticipated that a multi task assistant will provide partial reception cover while also supporting clinical services.
Approximately 12 to 14 staff are expected to be based in the centre, including four nursing staff and one dedicated staff member in each of occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech and language therapy.
On when the facility will open to the public, Councillor Gallagher was told the project is currently approaching practical completion with minor works such as painting and external parking/signage ongoing. An internal ESB sub-meter is also due to be relocated by the ESB - the date for these works remains outstanding.
Completion of building works is due at the end of Q3 2026. Once practical completion is agreed, the building will be handed over to HSE for equipment fit out.
Equipping is currently being coordinated. ICT has been installed by the developer and the HSE will complete fit out once the building is handed over. Lead times from equipment suppliers vary but may be up to 12 weeks.
Service commencement will be dependent on equipment delivery. It will be possible to commence services on a phased basis as specific areas are fitted out.