Cancellations ‘unavoidable’ as doctors’ strike set to hit hospitals
UNDER PRESSURE: Hull Royal Infirmary
By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor
Hospital bosses have warned it is “unavoidable” that some appointments and operations will be cancelled when resident doctors begin their latest round of strike action next week.
Members of the British Medical Association (BMA) will launch their 16th round of industrial action at 7am on Monday, June 15, running until 7am on Friday, June 19, as part of their long-running pay dispute with the Government.
Humber Health Partnership said staff at Hull Royal Infirmary and Castle Hill Hospital have “well rehearsed plans” which are being put in place to prepare for the strike.
But they added: “Unfortunately it is unavoidable that some patients will have their appointments and procedures postponed as a result of the action. Affected patients will be contacted in advance. Anyone with an appointment or procedure scheduled to take place during the strike period should attend the hospital as planned if you don’t hear from our team.”
Sam Peate, group chief delivery officer for NHS Humber Health Partnership, said: “As ever patient safety is our top priority during strike action and we are putting contingency plans in place to ensure disruption to patients is as minimal as possible.
“Whilst we are doing everything we can to maintain as much activity as possible, some cancellations are unavoidable to allow us to prioritise urgent and emergency care and cancer patients. This is regrettable, but necessary to allow us to focus on the most seriously ill/injured of our patients.
Mr Peter Sedman, deputy chief medical officer, said: “We fully appreciate that for some patients, this will not be the first time they’ll be having their appointment postponed and we appreciate how frustrating this is. I’d like to apologise to anyone affected, please be assured we are working to get you rebooked as soon as possible.”
“Industrial action does place considerable pressure on services which are already stretched. As with previous strikes we’d really appreciate the support of our local communities.
“GP surgeries and pharmacies will remain open during the strike and NHS 111 staff are on hand to offer advice if you’re unwell and unsure where to turn.
“If you do need to come into one of our emergency departments please be mindful that we have fewer doctors on shift so you may experience a longer than usual wait. Please also respect those staff members who are in work who are doing their best to see and treat people as quickly as possible.”