Hospital appointments and community services across Clare, Limerick and Tipperary are facing disruption today on account of the adverse weather conditions.
A number of appointments are expected to be cancelled over the coming days.
Meanwhile, those feeling unwell are being encouraged to consider all care options before attending the Emergency Department at University Hospital Limerick, as the Midwest facility faces high numbers of presentations of patients with flu.
HSE Midwest is warning people with appointments to only attend if they have phoned ahead to confirm it is taking place and that it is safe for them to travel.
Health officials are advising patients that if they are unable to make contact with the clinic, they’ll be contacted directly.
All cancelled appointments will be rescheduled over the coming days and HSE Mid West will be reviewing all services on a day by day basis, with the cold weather is expected to continue well into the coming week.
HSE Midwest says it’s expecting to have some staffing deficits due to the weather, however planning is ongoing to ensure they’re able to run as many services as possible.
Anyone feeling unwell is encouraged to consider all available healthcare options, including local pharmacies, your GP, or the out-of-hours GP service, with many GP practices offering extended opening hours.
People are also encouraged to take extreme care as they go out and about to prevent slips, trips and falls.
The Injury Unit which can treat broken bones, dislocations, sprains, strains, wounds, scalds and minor burns is open at Ennis Hospital from 8am to 8pm, every day.
Meanwhile, the Emergency Department at University Hospital Limerick remains open around the clock for patients with the most serious illnesses and injuries, including life-threatening emergencies.
Anyone attending the ED with a less urgent condition is warned they may face long waiting times, as the hospital continues to manage high attendances along with high numbers of patients with flu.
HSE Midwest says cold weather can be harder on older people and on other vulnerable members of the community and relatives and neighbours are encouraged to check in on them in person or over the phone over the coming days.
