A new paediatric unit is being planned for Cork University Hospital (CUH), with a decision on a HSE planning application expected from Cork City Council later this year.
The project will include a revamp and extension of the existing single-storey building, which dates back to the 1970s. A two-storey extension will also be built above the existing ward. The children’s ward will include a new day ward, outpatient department and specialist areas for treating diabetes, cystic fibrosis and a haematology oncology facility.
New facilities will include a paediatric academic research facility, extra isolation rooms and a paediatric triage and assessment unit.
In recent years the existing children’s ward at CUH has benefited from the proceeds of an annual Cork for Kids Radiothon which is organised every year by local radio station 96FM. In excess of €1 million was raised for the children’s wards at the Mercy Hospital in Cork City and CUH from 2008 to 2010.
Funds were allocated for the development of the children’s therapeutic garden, refurbishment of the parents’ room on the ward and the development of the emergency room and a high-dependency unit. Some smaller pieces of therapeutic toys and equipment such as monitors were also purchased.