DRONES are delivering prescriptions to a remote Mayo island in “a game changer” initiative.
The hi-tech gadgets, which can carry 3kg of supplies, are flying from Carrowmore Beach in Louisburgh to Clare Island off Co Mayo in a landmark trial.
The drones are delivering medicines to Clare Island to save locals getting prescriptions on the mainland[/caption]
With the drones operating at speeds of around 120kph, the journey time is just under ten minutes.
Doctors hailed the pilot project – and insisted it will transform how remote island communities receive their healthcare.
Achill-based GP Dr Noreen Lineen-Curtis, who travels to Clare Island on a weekly basis, said: “There’s a broadband connection point on Clare Island which provides a secure video feed for patients to communicate directly with doctors, nurses and therapists.
“When this project is up and running, they will get their electronically prescribed medicines delivered by drone.
“This is such a game changer for islanders and will save them making journeys back and forth to the mainland for prescription medicine.”
The drones operate autonomously using artificial intelligence and are equipped to handle challenging terrain and unpredictable coastal weather conditions.
The project is led by Irish company Air Taurus in collaboration with the HSE and the University of Galway.
Programme Director John Morris said: “This pioneering initiative will showcase how drones can revolutionise emergency response and healthcare delivery for remote island communities, ensuring faster access to critical medical supplies when every second counts.”
The plan is to expand the auto aircraft systems to cater for emergency scenarios where life-saving medications or equipment could be sent at significant distances in brief amounts of time.
Ian McCabe, who lives on Clare Island and works with the University of Galway, said: “There are many days when the sea state makes a ferry to Roonagh Pier impossible but it would be suitable for a drone to fly.
“Short shelf life medications or those with complex or time-sensitive supply chains could also be carried.
“Our project is funded by Sláintecare through the Department of Health and we are developing telemedicine protocols and infrastructure to connect the island people with their mainland-based healthcare.
“We are active on Clare Island, Inishturk, and Inishbofin and are hoping to have our first remote outpatient consultations with UHG-based consultants before Easter.
“This will allow the islanders to avoid unnecessary travel when technology can provide the bridge between patient and doctor.”
The Healthy Islands initiative is currently being trialled at Clare Island off Co Mayo.
And officials confirmed there are plans to roll out the initiative to all remote island communities around the country.
