The non availability of physiotherapy services for inpatients and outpatients at Clifden District Hospital was raised at this week’s meeting of the Regional Health Forum when the situation was confirmed in response to questions from Cllr Eileen Mannion.
The forum was told that currently there is no physiotherapy service in place for short-stay, respite and convalescent patients in Clifden District Hospital (CDH ) and that all patients and acute services are informed of the situation in writing prior to admission.
Cllr Mannion expressed her discontent at the lack of the survice and sought reassurance from the HSE that this matter be reviewed urgently
In reply, Ann Cosgrove, Integrated Health Area Manager, Galway Roscommon said that St Anne’s has access to a private physiotherapist who works on site two days per week.
“If a client in CDH unexpectedly requires physiotherapy input, the private physiotherapist has facilitated reviews when necessary.
“Physiotherapy staffing has been identified and included as a requirement in the planning for the new CDH/St Anne’s unit development.
She said that the primary care physiotherapy post covering Clifden has been vacant since April 13 2026. “The post had been offered to candidates on a local panel; however, it was not accepted. The service is currently exploring alternative pathways to fill the vacancy.
“This is a primary care community physiotherapy post, and it provides limited cover to Clifden District Hospital.
She said that in the interim, the service has limited cover in place and are operating a prioritisation system to ensure that patients with the greatest clinical need continue to receive appropriate care.”
