HSE issue important update on eye doctor services in Tipperary South as recruitment continues
The Tipperary Star recently reported that a crucial medical position remains vacant in South Tipperary
Earlier this month, the Tipperary Star reported that a vital medical position in South Tipperary remains vacant after one successful candidate who was offered the role decided to turn it down.
Independent Cllr John O'Heney confirmed that after a long campaign over the course of 2024, the HSE had finally appointed a new ophthalmologist for the South Tipperary are.
However, due to personal reasons, they are now not able to take up the position.
Cllr John O'Heney says the HSE have readvertised the role and hope to fill it as soon as possible, branding the news as "disappointing" as it further extends a waiting time for this position that is "totally unacceptable."
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An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) who specializes in eye and vision care. They are trained to:
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Perform eye exams
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Diagnose and treat eye diseases (e.g., glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration)
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Prescribe medications
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Fit glasses or contact lenses
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Perform eye surgeries (e.g., LASIK, cataract removal)
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The HSE have offered the following update to the Tipperary Star in recent days:
The Community Ophthalmologist Physician post serving the Tipperary South area became vacant in October, 2024.
In line with the National Clinical Programme for Ophthalmology Model of Eye Care and the Modernised Eye Care Pathway, the Community Ophthalmologist Physician position serving Tipperary South has been upgraded to the position of Consultant Medical Ophthalmologist.
Following a process to fill the post, an appointment was made in July 2025. Unfortunately, however, the successful candidate has subsequently declined the post, prior to the commencement date.
The HSE is readvertising the position.
The HSE acknowledges the impact on service users (for both children and adults) in the meantime.
Whilst the recruitment process for the permanent filling of the post is ongoing, the HSE has been seeking to fill the post on an interim basis and towards resumption of ophthalmology services in Tipperary South.
For urgent eye care issues, patients from the Tipperary South area may be referred to the Eye Service via the Emergency Department pathway at University Hospital Waterford.