They're trying to juggle covid patients with a rise in seasonal, non-covid care.
January continues to be among the busiest months of the year in local healthcare settings.
That's according to the Clinical Director of Mullingar Regional Hospital.
Dr. Murat Kirca says the omicron variant is increasing pressure on staff who are already dealing with an increase in seasonal, non-covid care such as severe bronchitis or trauma from falls.
He's reminding the public that an increase in covid-related hospitalisations will adversely effect other services:
The hospital chief admits it's tough for staff to maintain morale during the crisis.
170 staff were out of work at the Mullingar Hospital last week, due to being either a close contact or confirmed case of covid-19.
Dr. Kirca says the last couple of years have been relentless for healthcare workers:
Gardai Praise Safety Organisation For Hard Work
Westmeath Councillor Calls For Compromise On Housing Development
Offaly Councillor Proposes Livestreamed Local Authority Meetings
Revenue Seize Over €570k In Contraband
Westmeath Volunteers Recognised At Water Safety Awards
Westmeath Hospital Among Top Earners Of Public Health Funds
Calls For Accountability Over State Covered Tax Errors
Government To Support Workers Affected By Fastway Receivership - Peter Burke
Major Oil Spill In Offaly
Growing Industry Driving Rise In Property Prices - Laois Auctioneer
Half A Million Granted For Midlands Outdoor Recreation Projects
New Objection To Midlands Hospice Site In Offaly
Developers To Address Oireachtas On Housing Challenges
Westmeath Residents Move Against Major Housing Development
Median House Prices Rise In Midlands
Literary Festival Kicks Off In Laois Tomorrow
New Entrance To Laois Shopping Centre Gets Green Light
Midlands Winners For Family Carer Of The Year Announced
INTO Survey Reveals Job Vacancies In Over Half Of Special Schools
Offaly Mother Raises Almost €2k for Down Syndrome Ireland