There was an almost 60% increase in the number of appointments cancelled at University Hospital Kerry last year.
That’s according to figures from the HSE, released to Aontú as reported in today’s Irish Independent.
They show that in 2023, just over 1,500 appointments were cancelled at UHK, but this rose to over 2,400 in 2024.
The HSE says the main reasons for increasing numbers of cancelled operations include a reduction in availability of beds or theatre capacity, due to increased emergency department attendances and admissions.
It also says sick leave or staff shortages, or unforeseen circumstances can also lead to cancellations, such as bad weather, infection outbreaks, or industrial action.