Emma Murphy (IFPA Research and Policy Coordinator), Alison Spillane (Councillor) Alan Edge (Mayor of South Dublin), Eimir Molloy (IFPA Clinic Services Manager), Dr Caitríona Henchion (IFPA Medical Director); Niall Behan (IFPA CEO), and Councillor Carly Bailey, at the launch of the IFPA’s new-look clinic at The Square, Tallaght.
Soft lighting and a brighter space for a less stressful time
THE Irish Family Planning Association’s (IFPA) new-look clinic at level three in The Square Shopping Centre in Tallaght has been launched.
The works were carried out in the clinic’s waiting room, and include softened lighting and new posters and signage, which the clinic staff hope will alleviate the stress patients may feel while waiting.
Dr Caitríona Henchion, IFPA’s medical director, said: “Waiting for healthcare can be stressful for anyone, whether it’s cervical screening, an abortion appointment, having a contraceptive device fitted or removed, or an STI test.
“With that in mind, we’ve created a fresher, brighter, more open and friendly space for our clients, with posters and materials that promote sexual and reproductive health and raise awareness of bodily autonomy and rights.”
The new waiting room design was also welcomed by Eimir Molloy, the IFPA’s clinical operations manager, who said the changes were informed by input from staff.
“We’re delighted to welcome people from the Tallaght area into our newly designed clinic waiting room,” she said.
“We have made a range of improvements, based on the knowledge and experience of our staff.
“We’ve also consulted with organisations that focus on women’s sexual and reproductive health needs.
“We have softened the lighting, introduced new posters and signage, and opened up the space to make it brighter and more welcoming.
“This is a space that reflects our values, and we hope it will positively impact on clients’ experience of using our services.”
Figures were published to coincide with the launch, which found that more than 4,000 people from the Tallaght area accessed sexual and reproductive healthcare with the IFPA last year.
Contraception was the IFPA’s most sought-after service, accounting for 35 per cent of all appointments in 2022.
This was followed by cervical screening at 21 per cent and abortion care at 11 per cent.
Other services that people accessed from the IFPA included menopause care, pregnancy counselling, and testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections.
For full access to all content on Echo.ie and to support the continuation of local news and local journalism in your community subscribe HERE.
Thanks for your ongoing support.
