Hospital healthcare worker recognised for frontline innovation at HSE summit
A healthcare staff member from the Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore has been recognised for her groundbreaking frontline innovation at the 'HSE Bright Sparks' summit in Dublin.
Consultant Gastroenterologist, Mairead McNally, received the National Doctors Training Best Doctor-Led Project Award for her project 'Development of a Single Visit Clinic for Assessment and Management of Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease', one of 12 innovative solutions to healthcare challenges recognised at the annual summit.
Mairead's initiative utilised pre-clinic blood tests, in-clinic evaluations, and tailored education materials to streamline the patient journey of those with metabolic liver disease.
Traditionally, patients would face a year-long wait and require up to four clinic visits for a full assessment. Using this approach, the process is reduced to a single visit for full assessment.
The event celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of frontline healthcare professionals, bringing together international experts, policymakers, and local innovators to explore latest advancements in healthcare innovation.
The HSE Spark Award winners show just some of the ways that using existing resources in different ways, can massively improve processes and reduce pressure on healthcare professionals.
Caitriona Heffernan, HSE Spark Innovation Lead, said the Spark Summit is an opportunity to honour and recognise commitment to improving patient care through innovation.
"It not only celebrates achievements but also demonstrates the power of face-to-face connection to inspire learning, spark new ideas, problem solving, and strengthen our shared drive to deliver better care across the HSE.
“This unique event showcases the ingenuity of frontline healthcare professionals who, every day, are transforming the way we think, work, and care through innovative solutions," Ms Heffernan said.
The HSE Spark Innovation Programme supports innovation across the health service by providing funding, mentorship, and access to design-thinking methodology.