GRO UHK is a dynamic Portfolio of Projects to grow and further develop our hospital such that we can provide the optimal service to our patients and ensure UHK as a workplace is optimised. 

Work continues on University Hospital Kerry (UHK)’s progressive portfolio of projects, ‘GRO UHK’, which stands for Growing, Rejuvenating & Optimising UHK.

Following the University Hospital Kerry (UHK) Review and a 2023 HIQA Report of an inspection against the National Standards for Safer Better Healthcare, GRO UHK was established.

UHK’s Executive Management Team (EMT) successfully oversaw the implementation of GRO in collaboration with SSWHG and HSE Oversight until 2024.
This governance structure has now been updated to reflect Regional Executive Management and IHA Management structures.

As at 01 July 2026, the GRO Portfolio encompasses approximately 95 projects. This includes 42 Completed projects and 34 projects currently In Progress. Projects in the GRO portfolio fall under the following seven themes:

Priority projects for 2026 which will contribute to an Enhanced Patient Experience

Increase the number of patient beds in UHK, increasing the capacity of the hospital to treat patients in a timely manner

Continue to enhance patient flow through UHK Operating Theatres in line with the Transforming Theatre Programme

Open a NEW Women’s Health Building, a dedicated space for women located off the hospital site

Oversee the implementation of the Acute Floor Model at UHK via the progression of the following pathways / services:

1. Acute Trauma Services / Orthopaedics
2. Ambulatory Care

Continue to implement initiatives within the ICT Stabilisation & Upgrade Programme

Progress infrastructural works which align with priorities identified in UHK’s Development Control Plan

Integrate and expand the Quality, Risk & Patient Safety Function, facilitating UHK in meeting the National Standards for Safer Better Healthcare developed by HIQA

Improving door-to-decision time in acute stroke care