16/01/2026
Members of the Northern Ireland Assembly’s Health Committee recently visited the Cardiac Ward and Cardiac Imaging Centre at South West Acute Hospital (SWAH), where they met staff and patients and learned more about the services provided.
The visit was led by Consultant Cardiologist Professor Monica Monaghan, who showed members around the cardiac unit and imaging facilities, including the CT and MRI scanning services. Committee members also had the opportunity to speak with the multidisciplinary team and patients currently receiving care there.
Prof Monaghan explained
“A significant proportion of patients attending the Emergency Department require admission to medical specialties such as cardiology, respiratory medicine and gastroenterology. The cardiac team treats a wide range of acute conditions, including heart attacks, abnormal heart rhythms, heart failure and valve disease.”
SWAH is one of only three centres in Northern Ireland providing cardiac MRI, with patients travelling from across the region to access this specialist service. The hospital operates as part of a regional hub-and-spoke model, supporting both local and regional cardiac care.
Prof Monaghan also emphasised the importance of treating patients holistically, working closely with nurses, pharmacists and other specialists to achieve best outcomes.
Specialist pharmacist Laura Cox commented
“Medication management plays a vital role in supporting patients with multiple conditions, helping to optimise treatment, reduce side effects and empower patients to manage their health more effectively.”
The visit highlighted the strength, expertise and teamwork of cardiac services at SWAH, and their important role within the regional health system.
SWAH remains an important Acute Hospital within the Northern Ireland hospital network and its acute services provision has not changed. SWAH provides a 24/7 Type 1 Emergency Department, maternity services (Obstetrics and Gynaecology), full resuscitation facilities and Intensive Care Unit.
The Trust has commenced a significant stakeholder engagement programme across Fermanagh and West Tyrone to listen to staff and the public ahead of te design of a new Vision for future health in the area. The planned work will reflect the specific health needs of the population – including rurality, ageing demographic trends, and the vital importance of strong community and primary care services – while also exploring further opportunities through cross-border partnerships.
A comprehensive communications and engagement programme is being developed as part of the visioning work for Future Health and Care in Fermanagh and West Tyrone to ensure people have clear, factual information about services and future plans.
Visit the Fermanagh and West Tyrone Future Health and Care Services Online Hub