'Excellent care' the priority for new Portlaoise hospital Manager

A woman with two decades of experience in healthcare leadership has taken the reins in the most senior managerial role at Portlaoise hospital.

The appointment of Eileen Burke as the new Hospital Manager of the Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise was confirmed by the HSE Dublin Midlands in a statement to the Leinster Express / Laois Live  

It said Ms Burke brings nearly two decades of experience in healthcare leadership and commitment to delivering "safe, high-quality, patient-centred care".

The HSE added that Ms Burke has held senior management positions across Ireland’s health services. Her previous roles include senior leadership positions in Older Person Services, the Acute Drugs Management Programme, National Scheduled Care Programme, Cork University Hospital, and the Healthcare Pricing Office, as well as regional coordination for the North Dublin Regional Drug Task Force.

The HSE said this extensive background demonstrates her "expertise in operational management, service delivery, strategic planning, and healthcare policy".

Ms Burke, a Tipperary native, spoke about taking on the top administrative role at the hospital, which has recently benefited from a multi-million euro investment in the Emergency Medicine wing.

“I am delighted to take on the role of Hospital Manager at Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise. My priority will be to ensure we continue providing excellent care for our patients while supporting our dedicated staff as we work together to meet the growing needs of the local community. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

PICTURED: Eileen Burke, Hospital Manager, Midlands Regional Hospital Portlaoise.

“Since joining Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise, I have been warmly welcomed by staff and witnessed first-hand their dedication and the challenges they face every day. I am confident that, together, we can make meaningful improvements. My focus will be on three key areas: patient and staff safety, access to care, and digital innovation.

"Looking ahead, I am committed to fostering strong partnerships with academic institutions, community organisations, and policy leaders to advance integrated healthcare and drive initiatives that improve patient care and enhance the experience for all service users at Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise,” said Ms Burke.

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Carole Broadbank, Integrated Healthcare Area Manager, HSE Midlands welcomed the new Manager.

“We are delighted to welcome Eileen as Hospital Manager of Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise. Her proven track record and commitment to improving healthcare services will be invaluable to our hospital and the community we serve. Eileen’s appointment reflects our commitment to strong leadership and continuous improvement in healthcare delivery.

"Her experience and vision will play a key role in ensuring Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise continues to provide exceptional care for our patients and service users,” said the statement.

Ms Burke takes over from John Joyce, who was appointed Manager in January 2023.