Cystic fibrosis unit for children opens at University Hospital Galway

A paediatric cystic fibrosis unit has officially been opened at University Hospital Galway. The unit, which cost €590,000 to construct – €250,000 was contributed by Cystic Fibrosis Ireland – was declared open yesterday by Taoiseach Enda Kenny. He described the new facility as "world class in what it is going to be able to do".

The unit is a dedicated specialist facility for daycare and outpatient services for children with cystic fibrosis, where they can be treated in a physical environment specifically designed to reduce the risk of infection. It is next to UHG’s existing paediatric unit.

Bill Maher, chief executive of the West/North West Hospitals Group, described it as an important development for the 38 paediatric patients with CF under the care of the hospital. "The new unit includes four examination rooms, a treatment room for procedures and a gym for assessment and physiotherapy, along with support services," he said. "The unit has been equipped with all the necessary hygiene facilities to reduce the risk of infection, which is critically important for this group of patients."

Mary Lane Heneghan of CF Galway said the construction of the facility was a very good example of what could be achieved by all parties – CF Galway together with CF Ireland and the West/North West Hospitals Group and HSE – working together.