About the Irish Haemochromatosis Association
The Irish Haemochromatosis Association CLG (IHA) is a charitable organisation dedicated to supporting individuals affected by haemochromatosis, a genetic condition characterised by excessive iron absorption in the body. The IHA plays a large role in raising awareness, providing information, and advocating for improved care and services for those living with the condition.
Addressing Gaps in Treatment Access
Currently, patients often need to travel to major hospitals for this procedure, placing strain on hospital-based venesection services and posing significant challenges for those in rural areas. At present, venesection nurses in hospital settings carry a heavy caseload, contributing to delays and limited access.
To address these issues, the IHA is developing a Nurse Training & Education Project, aimed at training practice nurses in general practitioner (GP) surgeries to perform venesections locally. This initiative would make the treatment more accessible and reduce the burden on hospital services. However, in smaller practices, GPs are often unable to offer venesection due to time constraints, as the procedure requires post-treatment monitoring for at least 20 minutes. Training practice nurses would help alleviate this barrier.
Laura Long, Account Executive, HSF Health Plan, presenting a grant of €13,500 to Miriam Forde, Executive Director, Irish Haemochromatosis Association.
Expanding Professional Development
The Nurse Training & Education project is expected to generate valuable evidence to support long-term funding from the Health Service Executive (HSE). The IHA is also collaborating with a new HSE professional development body to create a haemochromatosis training module for healthcare professionals. Additionally, the IHA continues to engage with community pharmacies to raise awareness through pharmacy networks and newsletters.
The Grant
The Hospital Saturday Fund awarded a €13,500 grant to the Irish Haemochromatosis Association. The funding will support the Nurse Training & Education Project, helping to improve access to essential treatment for individuals living with hemochromatosis throughout Ireland.
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