Radiologist posts at Letterkenny filled on ‘medium-term basis’

All seven consultant radiologist posts at Letterkenny University Hospital (LUH) are filled “on a medium-term basis”, the Medical Independent (MI) has been informed.

“We are awaiting interview dates for the permanent filling of four of these posts,” a spokesperson for Saolta University Health Care Group told MI in April.

Three of the consultant radiologists hold permanent HSE contracts and four are on fixed-term contracts.

Six of the seven consultants are on the specialist register for radiology.

The spokesperson said “significant work” has been undertaken at LUH to address the recruitment difficulties in radiology. It is understood LUH has also been chosen as the pilot site for the HSE’s Model 3 Hospital Project, which will involve a significant focus on recruitment and retention of medical staff.

Meanwhile, a review of the work carried out by a locum consultant radiologist employed at LUH from 6-15 September 2023 has been completed.

“While we cannot comment on any one individual, we can confirm that the findings were shared with the appropriate regulatory bodies. During their time at LUH the consultant had undertaken seven days of clinical activity,” according to Saolta’s spokesperson.

“In LUH all consultants and radiographers are encouraged to highlight any concerns regarding performance and reporting. As a result of this, these concerns were flagged promptly and acted upon. A full review of all patient care has now been completed and full open disclosure and appropriate follow-up care has been carried out where required.”

The review confirmed that no patient experienced an adverse clinical outcome as a result of the doctor’s work, stated the spokesperson.