University Hospital Galway’s award-winning Radiation Oncology Department has earned national recognition after being named Healthcare Team of the Year – Acute/Hospital Based at the Irish Healthcare Centre Awards 2026. In a major boost for Health services in the west, the Health Service Executive (HSE) team was honoured for innovation, patient-centred care and the successful transformation of cancer treatment services across the region.
The department, which serves more than 800,000 people across the West and North West of Ireland, was shortlisted in four categories before taking home the top team award. The achievement highlights how modern investment, strong clinical leadership and multidisciplinary collaboration can improve outcomes for patients while supporting wider public service priorities often highlighted on gov.ie and across the Irish healthcare system.
Radiation Oncology award recognises major service transformation
The University Hospital Galway team completed a significant transition after moving into a new state-of-the-art Radiation Oncology Centre. During that process, all treatment equipment was replaced and advanced radiotherapy systems were introduced. Crucially, the changeover was completed ahead of schedule within six months and without disrupting patient care.
This transformation matters not only for Galway but also for the broader Health sector, where timely access, safety and clinical quality remain central concerns for the HSE, HIQA and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in regulated healthcare environments.
- New radiotherapy equipment installed in a modern treatment centre
- Clinical transition completed ahead of schedule
- No interruption to patient treatment during the move
- Expanded access to advanced cancer care closer to home
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Advanced cancer care now closer to home
The Radiation Oncology Department introduced several important innovations over the past year. These included a Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy programme, wider stereotactic radiosurgery services for brain tumours, 4D CT planning and MRI-supported radiotherapy developments. It also became the first service in the region to offer tattoo-less radiotherapy using Surface Guided Radiation Therapy.
For patients and families, that means access to highly specialised treatment without the burden of travelling long distances. It also reflects the kind of public-sector innovation seen across Irish bodies including the Revenue Commissioners, Department of the Taoiseach and agencies focused on service delivery, accountability and modernisation.
Key innovations introduced
- SABR for precise, high-dose treatment
- Expanded SRS for brain tumour patients
- 4D CT planning for improved treatment accuracy
- MRI-supported radiotherapy development
- Tattoo-less radiotherapy with SGRT technology
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Safety, education and teamwork drove the win
The award was not based on technology alone. The team also demonstrated strong governance and patient safety through radiation therapist-led SAFE huddles, advanced patient identification systems and engagement with HIQA, EPA and OECI accreditation processes. Alongside this, staff remained active in undergraduate and postgraduate education, international clinical trials, student and patient open days, and charity fundraising.
Team representatives said the recognition reflects the dedication, professionalism and compassion of staff across the department. Galway University Hospitals management also praised the team for improving access to treatment, enhancing safety and setting a benchmark for innovation in cancer care.
Why the Radiation Oncology success matters
This Radiation Oncology achievement shows how targeted investment and clinical excellence can strengthen regional healthcare delivery under the Health Service Executive (HSE). It is a reminder that public health services in Ireland can combine innovation, safety and compassion while delivering measurable benefits for patients. For communities across the West and North West, this Radiation Oncology award is more than a title — it is proof that world-class cancer care is increasingly available closer to home.
Article/Image Courtesy: HSE
