Ger McNamara- National Service Desk Engineer

Background:

I’ve been with the HSE since 2016, bringing with me a wealth of experience from my time as a self-employed professional in the IT sector. This dual perspective has been invaluable in my role. My work is based out of Heuston Hall in Limerick, where I provide IT support to the CEO, Bernard Gloster. I’m part of both the IT Mid-West team and the Executive Support team in Dublin. My commute is a manageable 25 minutes each way via the Toll route, which keeps the journey relatively smooth.

Working Life:

A typical day starts with virtual meetings with my Executive Support colleagues in Dublin over Teams. My main responsibility is providing onsite IT support, resolving technical issues at St. Camillus Hospital and health centres across Limerick’s north side. Each day requires flexibility and prioritisation, as I need to be ready to assist staff and users with IT issues as they arise.

Top Priorities:

Right now, my primary focus is ensuring all IT issues are resolved promptly, minimising downtime and maintaining seamless operations. Providing onsite IT support for the CEO when in Limerick is another key aspect of my role.

Challenges involved:

One of the ongoing challenges I face is coordinating with staff who work shift patterns. Effective communication is essential, and I adapt to ensure support is always available when needed.

Impact on Patient Care:

IT is the backbone of modern healthcare, and ensuring systems are fully functional directly impacts patient care. Knowing that my work contributes to this keeps me motivated and focused.

The Most rewarding aspects of my job:

I’ve had the privilege of working on impactful projects, including the laptop and Windows 7 upgrade initiatives, as well as supporting the COVID-19 IT response, and planning IT for the new wing at St. Camillus Hospital in Limerick. These projects have improved efficiency, enhanced security, and ultimately elevated the quality of care provided. What I enjoy most, though, is meeting and supporting the users and patients who rely on these systems.

Hobbies & Interests:

Outside of work, I enjoy walking my dog, Bonnie—when she’s in the mood for it! I’m also an amateur radio operator and a staff major with St. Mary’s Prize Band.