HSE Urges Cork to Choose Right Care Option as Jazz Weekend and Halloween Approach

The HSE South West is asking the public to consider all healthcare options before visiting Emergency Departments this bank holiday weekend, as Cork prepares for the Jazz Festival and Halloween festivities.

With Emergency Departments at Cork University Hospital and the Mercy University Hospital experiencing exceptionally high demand in recent weeks, health officials are reminding people that injury units, GP out-of-hours services and pharmacies can handle many non-urgent medical needs.

The advice comes as Cork gears up for a busy weekend combining the October bank holiday, the renowned jazz festival and Halloween celebrations.

Priscilla Lynch, HSE manager for Cork South and West, said:

"The public are aware that our Emergency Departments have been exceptionally busy lately. We again remind people that if you need urgent or emergency healthcare, HSE South West is here for you, but we ask you to consider which healthcare option best meets your needs. Cork weekend is gearing up for a great weekend of jazz, and we want everyone to stay safe and enjoy the festivities."

Ms Lynch warned that Emergency Departments are typically busier during bank holidays, meaning patients with non-urgent issues may face lengthy waits as staff prioritise those most in need of care.

For many injuries and illnesses, injury units offer a faster alternative. The facilities at Gurranabraher (the Mercy Injury Unit), Mallow and Bantry remain open throughout the weekend, providing consultant-led care including X-rays, treatment for fractures, burns and stitching.

The Irish Life Health expresscare clinic is also available to treat minor injuries on the same terms as HSE injury units, operating from 10am to 8pm for those aged 12 months and over.

Other care options available this weekend include self-care for common ailments, advice from pharmacists for minor illnesses, GP appointments during surgery hours, and the SouthDoc out-of-hours GP service on 0818 355 999.

The HSE emphasised that in genuine emergencies, people should not delay visiting an Emergency Department or dialling 999 or 112.

Beyond healthcare, officials are urging the public to take sensible safety precautions whilst enjoying the festivities.

Sonya Cotter, HSE manager for Cork North and East, said:

"We hope that everyone stays safe this bank holiday weekend, whether that is travelling, enjoying festivals and gatherings, attending the Jazz Festival, sporting events or making the most of our wonderful outdoor amenities. Make sure that kids are easily visible when out in the darker hours."

The National Ambulance Service has also asked people using sports grounds and other amenity sites to park carefully, ensuring emergency vehicles can access facilities if needed.

Rob Moriarty of NAS South West said:

"Bank holidays are always busy across Cork and Kerry, with many people making the most of the opportunity to enjoy the wonderful outdoor amenities on our doorstep. We ask the public to remember that in the event of an emergency, ambulances may need to access pitches and other amenity sites. Please make sure that you don't block that access."

Full information on injury units is available at www.hse.ie/injuryunits.