National Review of Adult Specialist Cardiac Services in Ireland

The Steering Group for the National Review of Specialist Cardiac Services was chaired by Professor Philip Nolan.

The aim of the review was to examine the evidence to arrive at a series of recommendations that would support services delivering optimal patient outcomes. It had a particular emphasis on the safety, quality and sustainability of the services that patients receive.

In terms of scope, the National Review will cover scheduled and unscheduled hospital-based services for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiac disease in adults.

The National Review will conduct its business by:

• Generating key questions on which rigorous systematic reviews of the evidence was undertaken using internationally recognised methodology
• Consulting with the public and relevant stakeholders – including a call for submissions
• Identifying international best practice
• Carrying out a number of site visits
• Analysing data on existing services and populations

In addition, an International Reference Panel comprised of international experts was formed to provide an independent peer review. These measures, taken with the relevant professional and patient input, were designed to ensure that the National Review was comprehensive and of the highest quality standard.

Read more in the Steering Group's Modus Operandi, Conflict of Interest Policy and Terms of Reference.

The Steering Group is comprised of 15 members (in addition to the Chair), consisting of patients, relevant health professionals, senior HSE management and senior departmental officials. Collectively, the Group has expertise in clinical provision, service management, service policy, clinical effectiveness and patient safety, public health and patient experience.

Further Information on the process/consultation elements of the National Review of Adult Specialist Cardiac Services in Ireland up to 2019 can be found here.