More than 1,000 people in Limerick are waiting to access neurology services
A new report from the Neurological Alliance of Ireland (NAI) has revealed shocking statistics for Limerick and around the country
NEW research into neurology services has highlighted that one in six people in the country are living with a neurological condition and facing barriers to timely diagnosis, treatment and ongoing care.
Neurological Alliance of Ireland (NAI) published the research, which found that more than 860,000 people in Ireland are impacted by these service gaps.
The report, based on a nationwide survey of neurology centres and in-depth patient engagement, reveals that despite the ambitions set out in the 2016 Model of Care for Neurology Services, many recommendations remain unimplemented ten years on.
As a result, services are under sustained pressure, with growing waiting lists, regional inequities and critical staffing shortages affecting patient outcomes.
There are currently over 24,000 people waiting for an outpatient neurology appointment, according to figures from the National Treatment Purchase Fund, with 1,032 people on waiting lists in Limerick.
The number of people on a waiting list to see a neurologist has almost doubled over the past 10 years reflecting both rising demand and the impact of an ageing population.
Magdalen Rogers, chief executive of the Neurological Alliance of Ireland, said: “This report confirms what patients and families across Ireland have been telling us for years - access to neurology services is inconsistent, under-resourced and, in many cases, simply not meeting needs.
“With one in six people in Ireland living with a neurological condition, this is not a niche issue - it is a major public health challenge.
“We are encouraged by the Government’s commitment to a hub-and-spoke model, but it is critical that this is delivered with urgency and backed by the necessary investment in staffing and infrastructure.
“Patients simply cannot afford to wait any longer.”
The report highlights stark regional disparities in access to care, with several Model 3 hospitals lacking adequate neurology services, contrary to the recommendations set out in the Model of Care.
The Mid-West has a “critical shortfall” of 18 inpatient neurorehabilitation beds, while 24 are required and only six are currently available.
It is felt by those in the sector that Limerick patients and those from across the Mid-West region are being left “in limbo.”
The survey also found that less than a third of centres had access to neuropsychology, only one centre has access to a dedicated dietitian and four centres had no access to post acute inpatient neurorehabilitation.
As well as this, Ireland currently has just 97 specialist neurology nurses, well below the estimated requirement of at least 166, leaving a shortfall of approximately 70 nurses.
Patients and families report long delays, significant travel burdens and limited access to follow-up care. Many describe their lives being placed “on hold” while waiting for appointments and services.
The NAI is calling for urgent action to address these systemic issues and ensure equitable access to neurology services.