Sinn Féin MP Pat Cullen has welcomed the publication of the long awaited RQIA review report examining the temporary suspension of emergency surgery at the South West Acute Hospital (SWAH). 

The Fermanagh and South Tyrone MP said:

“I have met with the senior leadership team within the Trust this morning and expressed my concerns about this report. The narrow scope of this review means there is no reference or recommendation on the future permanent delivery of emergency general surgery. 

“This is a key concern for the people of Fermanagh and South Tyrone and having waited almost two years for an answer, it is incumbent on the Trust and Department of Health to be open and transparent on the permanent and future delivery of this key service at SWAH.

“It is difficult to understand how the RQIA can conclude there are no immediate patient safety issues, given the narrative regarding patients being subjected to ‘double waits’ within emergency departments. There is a direct link between delayed transfers, prolonged waits for assessment and treatment, and patient safety.

“The recommendations of the RQIA review must be taken forward at pace by the Trust in collaboration with the NI Ambulance Service (NIAS) and implemented in their entirety. As the commissioner of the report, the Department of Health must hold both organisations to account for full implementation.

“Sinn Féin will formally respond in writing to the Trust, NIAS and Department of Health and will continue to represent the views of all constituents who deserve access to the highest level of safe, effective clinical care.”