IDS was formed in 1990 in response to a request from the Secretary/Manager of Cappagh and the CEO of the Central Remedial Clinic that a high quality and efficient P&O service could be provided to both organisations from a base within the Cappagh complex. There was complete dissatisfaction with the services available from other sources at the time. IDS Ltd. is an Irish registered Company but in 2000 it became part of the Otto Bock Group of Companies, which has been very beneficial. Otto Bock is a world-wide organisation with a long and successful history and a wealth of global resources. It has a strong identity which is synonymous with high quality, and a strong clinical and manufacturing focus. It is also a company which has expertise in all areas of Rehabilitation, Prosthetics, Orthotics, Silicone Manufacture, Special Seating and Mobility products.

Originally there were only six staff in total working in a purpose-built but small facility within the hospital grounds. From that small beginning the Company has steadily grown in size, capability and reputation. The close relationship with Cappagh Hospital has been mutually beneficial. Cappagh benefits from the presence of a high quality prosthetic and orthotic service, which has been tailored to the hospital's requirements over the years. It has often been noted that Cappagh's already excellent reputation has been further enhanced by the reputation of IDS. IDS benefits from the close cooperation with Cappagh's clinical staff and from the support of senior management.

IDS is still small enough to change quickly according to local requirements, but also has access to the huge resources of the world's leading P&O organisation. IDS has 35 employees, comprising 13 Prosthetist/ Orthotists, including the Clinical Director who attends clinics regularly, 9 technicians, 2 stores staff and 11 administration and finance staff.

From a customer base of two organisations, the CRC and Cappagh, IDS now receives both prosthetic and orthotic referrals from all of the main Dublin hospitals, including the NRH, and from many other hospitals and organisations nation-wide.

IDS currently holds two of these, for the North West and North East HSE regions. Each contract has been retained upon re-tendering and both have been rolled on.