UL and UHL collaborate on Organisation of European Cancer Institutes membership

University of Limerick, in collaboration with University Hospital Limerick, has officially become a member of the Organisation of European Cancer Institutes. 

This prestigious membership recognises UL and UHL’s dedication to excellence in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and research across its departments involved in cancer research.

UL supports UHL in its mission to improve cancer care in the Mid-West region through an emphasis on innovation for the enhancement of diagnosis and treatment, and improvements in the experiences of patients and their families and carers.

This collaboration has resulted in the establishment of an Organisation of European Cancer Institutes (OECI) Accreditation and Designation programme with ambitions to develop a complete quality system for cancer care, education, and research in the Midwest.

The UL leadership team responsible for this new programme includes Professor Colum Dunne, Head of School of Medicine, along with Professor Rose Galvin, School of Allied Health, and Assistant Professor Amira Mahdi, School of Medicine, who will contribute to the dedicated education pillar of the programme. 

The programme will also involve Professor Ruth Clifford, School of Medicine and Consultant Haematologist at UHL, who will focus on the enhancement of research and clinical trial activity. Professor Clifford is also co-lead for the Limerick Digital Cancer Research Centre, which brings together UL and HSE researchers dedicated to improving patient outcomes.

The OECI’s Accreditation and Designation programme is viewed as the gold standard globally, ensuring a complete quality system for cancer care, education, and research. The accreditation process involves rigorous self-assessment against 87 specific standards followed by an on-site audit. 

“OECI membership is one of the first stages in a journey to enhance all aspects of cancer care in the Midwest of Ireland. It emphasises the level of focus on, and investment in, this ambition. UL and UHL colleagues have a shared vision and aspirations for this OECI programme,” said Professor Dunne.

“The University’s strengths in strategic leadership, research and innovation will be key elements in OECI success, and we look forward to meeting the many standards necessary for this accreditation. This achievement will highlight UL’s consistent translation of our knowledge and expertise into real benefits for society,” Professor Dunne added.