Health
Croom healthcare staff member Anna Marie Kiernan recognised for groundbreaking frontline innovation
Anna Marie Kiernan, ANP Pain Management, Pain Excellence Centre, Croom Orthopaedic Hospital, and her project, ‘Patch Me If You Can/Virtually Pain Free’ pictured above at the Summit with Claire McElvenna, National HSCP Innovation Fellow, HSE Spark. Picture: Julien Behal Photography
Anna Marie Kiernan is an Advanced Nurse Practitioner at Croom Orthopaedic Hospital Pain Excellence Centre
Anna Marie Kiernan, Advanced Nurse Practitioner at Croom Orthopaedic Hospital Pain Excellence Centre (HSE Mid-West health region) received the Best Use of Innovative Technology Award for her project ‘Patch Me If You Can/Virtually Pain Free’, one of 12 innovative solutions to healthcare challenges recognised at the annual HSE Spark Summit in Dublin. The event celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of frontline healthcare professionals, bringing together international experts, policymakers, and local innovators to explore latest advancements in healthcare innovation.
The HSE Spark Award winners show just some of the ways that using existing resources in different ways, can massively improve processes and reduce pressure on healthcare professionals.
‘Patch Me If You Can/Virtually Pain Free’ piloted a gamified Augmented Reality (AR) tool to reduce procedural pain during Qutenza patch treatments.
advertisement
advertisement
advertisement
advertisement
advertisement
advertisement
Speaking at the Summit, Anna Marie said, “As a nurse practitioner supporting patients through the pain associated with medical procedures, I’ve seen first-hand how powerful ‘distraction’ techniques can be in refocusing their attention and easing discomfort. The AR tool has been welcomed by patients as a new solution for pain relief across different stages of inpatient care It is remarkably user-friendly for such modern technology —crucial for patient adoption.
“I’m thrilled that HSE Spark Innovation has backed the further development of ‘Patch Me If You Can,’ helping transform an everyday technique into a scalable, impactful intervention.”
Caitriona Heffernan, HSE Spark Innovation Lead, said, “The Spark Summit is just one day in the year – but it represents the culmination of countless hours of dedication, creativity, and collaboration by frontline staff across the health service.
“It’s an opportunity to honour and recognise their commitment to improving patient care through innovation. It not only celebrates their achievements but also demonstrates the power of face-to-face connection to inspire learning, spark new ideas, problem solving, and strengthen our shared drive to deliver better care across the HSE.”
“This unique event showcases the ingenuity of frontline healthcare professionals who, every day, are transforming the way we think, work, and care through innovative solutions.”
Speaking at the summit, Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, TD, said, “At a time when our health service is under significant pressure, the HSE Spark Innovation Programme continues to highlight the strength, creativity, and commitment of our frontline workers. HSE Spark supports and mentors healthcare professionals to develop meaningful improvements, grounded in their day-to-day experience and close connection with patients and service users. It’s a reminder that even in challenging times, positive change is possible when we support and invest in those delivering care on the ground.”
The HSE Spark Innovation Programme supports innovation across the health service by providing funding, mentorship, and access to design-thinking methodology.
Information about the programme
Limerick gets behind the Senior Footballers ahead of Tailteann Cup final
10 Questions with artist Gillian Kenny Shinnors
Lights, camera, action at Markets Field with Treaty United this weekend
Sarsfield Homecoming Project overwhelmed with support from more than 430 donors
Limerick Film Lab brings together Irish, Scottish and Canadian talent in Limerick City
5 events in Limerick this weekend, July 4 – July 6
WATCH The sixth Limerick Garden Festival will bring garden talks and high-profile experts to the city this June 15
Tesco Mobile officially open brand-new Arthur’s Quay Shopping Centre store
Much-loved Limerick Bus Éireann employee Pat Kennedy retires after 46 years
