Strike Action Concludes (without major incident)

MEDIA RESPONSE

Southland Hospital Update - Strike Action Concludes (without major incident)

Southland Hospital staff will resume full services today following the end of the 48 hour junior doctors' strike.

Leanne Samuel, Interim Chief Operating Officer said that the hospital had coped well during the strike, with no major incidents or any need to call in striking union members.

"Our senior doctors and nursing staff have ensured that the contingency plans worked well and I wish to acknowledge their dedication and commitment to the Southland community during the strike period."

Mrs Samuel also acknowledged the assistance of the Southland public in helping to keep the emergency department for emergencies only, ensuring the staff could focus their attention on patients requiring immediate medical attention.

Whilst the striking junior doctors have returned to work today, hospital management and clinical leaders will now turn their attention to the next round of strike action issued by the junior doctors' union for 7-9 May.

"It is disappointing to again receive strike action which will mean more Southland patients will have their elective surgery postponed and outpatients clinics will also be delayed for patient waiting to see a specialist."

"Further strike action will disrupt hospital services and place additional pressure on other workforce groups to again maintain all urgent health services for our community."

Mrs Samuel said that exact numbers of patients who will be affected were not yet confirmed, but staff would be establishing the impact of the next strike over the next few days.

ENDS

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