Changes in nedoc service scrapped

Jenny McGovern

Following 11th hour discussions with the HSE, today’s planned change in services with the North East Doctor on Call (NEDOC) will not go ahead.

NEDOC had resolved to reduce the number of doctors in their four centres overnight from four to three, causing widespread concern.
A spokesperson for the HSE said: “The HSE has confirmed that following discussions with NEDOC Ltd an agreement was finalised this [Tuesday] morning. This agreement will ensure that there will be no change to the current NEDOC service.”

Concerns for the future of the NEDOC service first began circulating earlier this year after the HSE confirmed they were considering proposals from NEDOC regarding service adjustments to the GP Out of Hours Service in the North East Region.
It followed reports that for the past couple of years NEDOC Ltd has seen the company operate an over-run, which rose to €400,000 in 2014.
However, the last ditch intervention means the service is set to be secured for the next year at least.
Administrations officer with the organisation, Arleen Fitzsimons, says the Health Service Executive has agreed to fund the provision of a fourth doctor.
Ms Fitzsimons told The Anglo-Celt yesterday: “NEDOC Ltd welcome the decision of the HSE to support the NEDOC service.
Their decision means that there will be no adjustments to the NEDOC services from Wednesday, April 1. I’m happy to report that from April 1 we will continue to run four red eye doctors at night, one in each county.
“The level of GP cover will be maintained and the service to patients will continue as it currently is. We welcome this development as it is very positive for the patients.
“This outcome was achieved through intensive discussions between the HSE and NEDOC.”