Mater Private Network triumphs at inaugural Private Healthcare Awards

Mater Private Network has emerged as the standout winner at the inaugural Private Healthcare Awards 2024, claiming both the coveted overall excellence award and private hospital of the year at a prestigious ceremony hosted by Colm O’Regan at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry, on October 3rd, 2024.

The event, which attracted 180 industry leaders, showcased the remarkable achievements of Ireland’s private healthcare sector, with 44 companies submitting 60 entries across 14 categories.

The private healthcare sector in Ireland has undergone significant transformation in recent years, establishing itself as a vital complement to the public health system. Operating alongside state-provided healthcare, the sector has become known for shorter waiting times and enhanced facilities, while fostering innovation in medical technology and patient care.

The Mater Private Network exemplifies this evolution, with its network of hospitals in Dublin, Cork, and Limerick specialising in cardiac care, orthopaedics, and cancer treatment.

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John Hurley, chief executive of Mater Private Network, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the achievement. “This recognition is a testament to the collective effort and commitment of our staff across ten care centres in the network. From delivering seamless, patient-focused care, to driving forward our digital transformation programme, every member of our team plays a crucial role in making these standards of excellence possible.”

The significance of the awards for staff morale was emphasised by Garry McCabe, chief people officer at Mater Private Network. “These awards do not occur in a vacuum, and while we’ve received recognition for our work this year, it is the steady progression of excellence over several years that enables the superb care provided by our amazing colleagues, every single day,” said McCabe.

The private healthcare sector has seen ongoing growth in specialised services, from corporate healthcare programmes to sophisticated sports injury clinics and rehabilitation centres. Many facilities have embraced digital transformation, implementing electronic health records and remote monitoring capabilities to enhance patient care.

Ann Hogan, retired principal medical officer and judging coordinator, praised the high calibre of entries. “The overall quality of the submissions was very high, and it is heartening to see such a focus on service user perspective and experience, as well as service quality.

“Many of the services which entered, while privately run, are working in partnership with the public services to provide services which otherwise might not be available as close to patients’ homes.”

Medforce, the event’s platinum sponsor, demonstrated strong support for the initiative. Managing director Lana Kane explained: “Medforce supports the Private Healthcare Awards because they celebrate the exceptional professionals driving our industry forward. As a healthcare recruitment agency, we see firsthand how recognising outstanding achievements inspires professionals to continually raise the bar, ultimately benefiting patients and advancing our healthcare services.”

The awards recognised excellence across various healthcare specialities. McCarthy Insurance Group secured the award for best corporate healthcare programme, with health and dental insurance manager Alan Cleary noting: “The quality of the competition was excellent, with some of the shortlisted entries hundreds of times larger than our little health department. So, we were delighted to get over the line.”

Advanced aesthetic practitioner Dr Mehvish Khan BSc MD MSc of MK Aesthetics in Wexford commented, “The role of an aesthetic doctor in Ireland combines artistry and medical expertise, enhancing confidence while prioritising safety. With demand surging, it’s a career blending precision, innovation, and patient care in a rapidly evolving cosmetic industry and this is what the Private Healthcare awards celebrate.”

St. John of God Hospital’s achievement in operational excellence was celebrated by head of operations Elaine Byrne. “It’s an opportunity to talk about the delivery of mental health care and destigmatise that. There are also award benefits in terms of staff morale and having all their hard work recognised,” she stated.

Dr. Julia Tbarani O’Shea, founder and managing director of Likha Aesthetic Clinic and one of the finalists for the best aesthetic clinic award said, “Our priority has always been to provide exceptional care, blending medical expertise with a personal touch. Excellence isn’t just a goal; it’s the standard we uphold every day for our clients. This principle is parallel to what Private Healthcare Awards is all about.”

Marie Loftus, managing director of Ailesbury Clinics in Dublin and Cork, winner of cosmetic clinic of the year, encouraged sector participation: “The Irish aesthetic sector continues to thrive, driven by technological advancements and a commitment to personalised, patient-centred care. These awards honour excellence, highlighting the innovation and ethical standards embodied by clinics like Ailesbury Clinic, empowering patients with greater self-confidence and a renewed sense of well-being.”

Regional excellence was highlighted as Gold Standard Physiotherapy Clinics in Nenagh, led by GAA physio Cian McDonnell, won the award in the sports injury clinic category. McDonnell described the accolade as “an unexpected but extremely pleasant surprise for a small-town, family-run clinic like ours”.

Andrea Lynch, director of Axon Rehab, named rehabilitation clinic of the year, acknowledged her team’s contribution at the Birdhill, Co Tipperary facility. “Providing intensive and effective neuro rehab is key to recovery. We are delighted that the PHA 2024 has recognised the innovative approach of Axon Rehab and will continue to expand our service offering.”

Optilase Eye Clinic’s recognition as total healthcare clinic of the year was celebrated by COO Sorcha Murray Hartigan. “We are deeply honoured and proud,” she said. “We also extend our heartfelt congratulations to the other winners and nominees. It was a privilege to be in the company of such outstanding healthcare professionals.”

Kevin O’Driscoll, director of partnership programmes at BusinessRiver, the awards organiser, acknowledged the support that made the event possible.: “Events like this are made possible through the support of sponsors,” he said. “We are thankful to our 2024 sponsors and professional partners, which include Medforce, Amárach Research and The Irish Times. Their investment in the awards underlines their commitment and support of this key business sector.”

Private Healthcare Awards judges

Ann Hogan (judging coordinator) - retired principal medical officer, formerly HSE
Conor Ellis - director, Archus Ireland
Claudia McGloin - specialist medical aesthetic and orthopaedic nurse practitioner, The New You Clinic
Vishnu Renjith -programme director and lecturer, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
Brid Seoighe - medical director, Johnson & Johnson
David Wall - chief information officer, Tallaght University Hospital

Private Healthcare Awards winners