The first Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist has been appointed in Cork, the first role of its kind for the Rebel County.
Charlotte Deasy has joined Parkinson’s Ireland from the NHS, where she worked as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner.
She will be based in the Carrigaline Primary Care Centre, with her services available to people with the disease and their loved ones across Cork.
There are only a small number of Parkinson’s specialist nurses in the HSE and across Ireland. As of December 2024, there were no Parkinson’s nurses available in Cork University Hospital.
Parkinson’s Ireland are hoping to expand the service, which it says can be a ‘lifeline’ for advice on medication and the many symptoms associated with Parkinson’s Disease for those newly diagnosed and living with the disease.
Around 18,000 people are living with the progressive neurological disorder in Ireland, a number expected to double by 2040.
Ted Horgan, Cork branch chairperson and his family supporting a Coffee Morning during Parkinson’s Awareness Week.
(Image: Parkinson’s Ireland / Facebook)
Ted Horgan, Chairman of the charity’s Cork branch, had the honour of being Charlotte’s first patient when he visited the Carrigalince clinic. Ted, who lives in Riverstick, said the “benefit of the appointment is significant.”
Shane O’Brien, the CEO of Parkinson’s Ireland, said: “We are delighted with this development, as there are only a small number of Parkinson’s specialist nurses in the HSE and in Ireland overall.
“As of December 2024, there were also no Parkinson’s nurses available in Cork University Hospital. This service is a model for other parts of the country, by delivering care in the community using the concept of integrated care.
“We are delighted to have Charlotte on board and look forward to continuing to expand our work in County Cork. I would also like to pay tribute to the work that our local Cork branch does in delivering local services in Cork.”
The service will be based in Carrigaline Primary Care Centre, Kilnaglery, Carrigaline. It is appointment only and can be requested by phoning 1800 359 359 or by emailing nurse@parkinsons.ie For more information, visit the Parkinson’s Ireland website here.