Galway Bay fm newsroom – There are fears that the closure of a bone-density scanning service at Merlin Park will lead to a rise in early deaths in older people.
The unit, which serves the entire western region, is set to shut down operations with a waiting list of more than 20 years.
The closure of the DXA scanning unit at Merlin Park will lead to a rise in fractures and, ultimately, premature deaths among older people.
That’s the stark warning issued by Professor John Carey, a specialist in osteoporosis at GUH – he says that the unit is set to close with immediate effect due to staff shortages.
DXA scans are used to measure the density of bones, and tests are carried out to assess strength, gauge the risk of fractures and detect osteoporosis.
According to the Irish Times, prior to 2008, the unit operated two DXA scanners five days a week – however, in recent years, that has been drastically reduced to just one scanner working over two half days.
In a statement, the Saolta Hospital Group says a shortage of radiographers has placed pressure on the system and that it is working to recruit staff to maintain the service.
It says that people with scans booked will be seen as planned – however, what will happen to the rest of those on the extensive waiting list for the service remains to be seen.