EFFORTS TO resolve a dispute over payment for critical computer services provided to a large number of hospitals and HSE offices have not been successful, a High Court judge was told yesterday.
Last month, the HSE obtained temporary orders compelling the owner of Keogh Software, Harold’s Cross, Dublin, to continue to provide support and maintenance for software used in what was described as patient-critical computer systems within the health service.
The company, owned by Eamon Keogh, claims the HSE is in breach of contract and owes the firm €85,000.
The company also claims, as a result of not being paid, it has had to lay off staff.
Emily Egan, for the HSE, told the court yesterday the matter had been adjourned twice in the hope it could be resolved but it had not been possible to do so.
As a result, the HSE was seeking to amend its proceedings seeking the source codes for the software involved which would enable the HSE to operate the system.
Mr Justice Michael Hanna listed the case for mention tomorrow with a view to finding an early hearing date.
He added the status quo under which Keogh Software continues to maintain the system should remain in place pending further orders.
The systems are used by different sections at various HSE facilities including radiology, AE, hospital billing and environmental health.
A number of hospitals, including Our Lady of Lourdes in Drogheda, use a system provided by Keogh Software to track patients through their AE departments so their medical details can be consulted during the course of treatment.
If that system went down the departments in question would have to use a manual system which they are not equipped to do, the HSE contends.