Radiation Oncology Department at University Hospital Galway named Healthcare Team of the Year

The Radiation Oncology Department at University Hospital Galway (UHG) was nominated in four categories at the recent Irish Healthcare Centre Awards 2026 and was recognised as Healthcare Team of the Year – Acute/Hospital Based. Celebrating an outstanding year of innovation, service transformation and patient-centred care.

Serving over 800,000 people across the West and North West of Ireland, the multidisciplinary team has transformed cancer treatment services while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality and compassion.

Following the move to a new state-of-the-art Radiation Oncology Centre, the department successfully completed a major clinical transformation involving the replacement of all treatment equipment and introduction of advanced radiotherapy technologies. The transition was completed ahead of schedule within six months, with no disruption to patient care.

Over the past year, the team introduced a Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR) programme, expanded stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) services for brain tumours, implemented 4D CT planning and MRI-supported radiotherapy developments, and became the first service in the region to offer tattoo-less radiotherapy using Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT). These advances have enabled patients to access world-class cancer treatments closer to home.

The department has also demonstrated excellence in safety and governance through the introduction of radiation therapist-led SAFE huddles, implementation of advanced patient identification systems and successful engagement with HIQA, EPA and OECI accreditation processes.

Alongside clinical achievements, the team remains committed to education, research and community engagement. Staff support undergraduate and postgraduate training programmes, participate in international clinical trials, host patient and student open days, and have raised more than €8,000 for charity through fundraising initiatives.

Michelle Comer, Clinical Specialist Radiation Therapist said, “We are absolutely delighted to have received this award on behalf of our entire Radiation Oncology team. This recognition reflects the dedication, expertise and commitment of every staff member who works tirelessly to provide the highest standard of care for our patients. Over the past number of years, we have delivered significant service developments. To see these achievements recognised nationally is a proud moment for the whole team.”

Stephen Coyne, Service Manager, Radiation Therapy added, “To be nominated in four categories is a great achievement for the department, however this was exceeded by winning the Healthcare Team of the Year – Acute/Hospital – Based Teams award. Winning this award is testament to the dedication, professionalism and compassion of our entire multidisciplinary team. Through innovation, collaboration and a strong focus on patient-centred care, we have expanded access to advanced cancer treatments while maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality for patients across the region.”

Chris Kane, General Manager, Galway University Hospitals “Well done to the team, this recognition reflects the exceptional work of the Radiation Oncology department in delivering transformative improvements in cancer care. The team has enhanced access to treatment, strengthened patient safety and established itself as a leader in innovation, making a real difference to patients and families throughout the West and North West.”