Work has commenced on the new Primary Care Network Centre following the official turning of the sod by Deputy Nicky McFadden TD.

The sod turning of the new building marks a significant milestone for the continued development of health services for the people of Athlone and the surrounding areas.

This new facility will provide all the Health and Social Care needs in an integrated fashion with many of the HSE and GP services being provided from the same building.

Located in Clonbrusk, the development will be a modern setting for continuing the work of local primary care teams and mental health and be a one stop shop for the health and social care services for the community.

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The services to be included are General Practitioner facilities, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Social Work services, Public Health Nursing, MIDOC, Dental, Mental Health and provision for Addiction Services.

In addition, it will facilitate Mental Health staff for area and a Day Hospital for patients with Mental Health problems. It will also include services such as Speech and Language Therapy, Dietetics, psychology and be home to the four Primary Care Teams in the Athlone area, while also providing a base for network services.

Speaking on the day, Mr Joseph Ruane, Area Manager for HSE Dublin Mid Leinster said: "The Primary Care Strategy calls for the development of integrated Primary, Community and Continuing Care Centres throughout the country. We are delighted to be here today to commence this building which will represent this model. This centre will provide a better service for the service user and in a more efficient way.

"This facility will allow us continue, improve and expand on the delivery of health services," he added.

The construction of the new Primary Care Facility is expected to be completed mid 2013.

(CD/GK)