Steady health reform making things better for patients

More than half of patients assessed by GPs under a new HSE programme have been identified as being at high risk of cardiovascular disease or diabetes and are now receiving medical intervention, according to a report published today.

The first report on the Opportunistic Case Finding Programme, published at the HSE National Health Conference, shows that since its launch in 2022, GPs have assessed nearly 200,000 patients.  Of these 105,569 were found to be at high risk of cardiovascular disease or diabetes, and there were a further 6,000 previously undiagnosed cases of chronic disease.

Speaking on the launch of the first report on Opportunistic Case Finding Programme in General Practice, HSE Lead, Dr Orlaith O’Reilly said:

“The Opportunistic Case Finding (OCF) Programme is proving its value, allowing GPs to identify patients at high risk of cardiovascular disease or diabetes when they visit for unrelated reasons. With one-third of chronic diseases often undiagnosed, early detection is crucial. In its first two years, the OCF has shown strong uptake among GPs and the public, effectively identifying over 100,000 high-risk patients and more than 6,000 undiagnosed cases. These patients are now benefiting from targeted interventions, highlighting the need for further expansion, particularly in treating chronic kidney disease.”

Key Highlights:

• Over 105,000 patients identified as high risk for cardiovascular disease or diabetes and over 6,000 cases of undiagnosed chronic disease through the Opportunistic Case Finding Programme.
• Over 180,000 Patients Benefiting: The introduction of 31 modernised care pathways across 102 sites has significantly improved access to healthcare across 16 medical specialties, marking a substantial shift in the delivery of care.
• Significant Reduction in Waiting Times: Major hospitals, including Tallaght University Hospital, Sligo University Hospital and Cork University Hospital, are reporting up to a 50% reduction in outpatient waiting lists for some specialties, with more people being seen within six months - a notable improvement in service delivery.
• Innovative Care Models: Initiatives including the Health Regions Programme, Enhanced Community Care Programme, Virtual Wards, Chronic Disease Hubs, and Community Healthcare Networks are all leading the way in providing specialised, accessible care directly within patients’ communities.

Today’s conference brings together health professionals, policymakers, and patient advocates to discuss seven pivotal initiatives that address the most pressing challenges facing the Irish healthcare system. From expanding primary care to implementing digital innovations and reducing waiting lists, these initiatives are not merely plans but active solutions already delivering tangible results.

Speaking at the event, Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly T.D., said:
“A testament to the success of the health service is the provision of enhanced and expanded services to Ireland’s ageing population which, coupled with a growing population, poses new and significant challenges for the health service. The demand for health services will continue to grow, while the range of services required will expand. Ireland’s preparedness for dealing with this challenge from a health service perspective, will be key to ensuring people not only continue to live long, but live well.

"This government and my department are continuing to invest in our health services. A lot of progress is being made in achieving the aims of Sláintecare. Our healthcare workers are doing an excellent job in driving down waiting times, improving patient flow and rolling out new services. Showcased at this conference today are initiatives and programmes that are improving access and outcomes and ultimately delivering better health services to patients and the public, on our road to delivering universal healthcare for all.”

Bernard Gloster, CEO of the HSE, highlighting the ongoing efforts of healthcare workers, said:

“Working for the health service is no ordinary job. It comes with unique challenges and rewards. Last year saw the highest volume of healthcare ever delivered in the State, with record numbers of patients treated in our hospitals. These advances, such as the opportunistic case finding programme, directly benefit our citizens, providing faster access to care and improving health outcomes. Ireland is increasingly being recognised as a leader in patient outcomes within Europe. Through joined-up services and innovative care pathways, we are not only reducing waiting lists but also ensuring patients receive the care they need, when and where they need it. This conference serves as an important platform to acknowledge these efforts and to discuss the work required to sustain and build on these advancements.

“As we look ahead, the road is undoubtedly challenging. These challenges underscore the critical importance of the discussions and strategies that will be addressed at the upcoming health conference, as we navigate the path towards sustaining and enhancing healthcare delivery for all. Our programme of transformational change and regional reform will modernise how we provide healthcare so that we are equipped to deal with the increasing demand and allow us to integrate acute and community care locally across the country.”

Follow the conversation online #HSEConference24