Guild supports striking hospital pharmacists

The Pharmacy Guild of New Zealand (the Guild) is supportive of hospital pharmacists in Auckland who took strike action this week in protest of unfair work demands and pay rates.

Hospital staff, including pharmacists, from Auckland, Waitemata, and Counties Manukau DHBs walked off the job in protest to proposed increased weekend services and pay cuts for new staff as they believe hospital staff are already overworked.

Guild Chief Executive, Lee Hohaia says “We feel for these hospital staff members as we understand the impact underfunding has on the provision of health services.

“As Waitemata DHB Public Service Association union organiser, Simon Oosterman is quoted saying, these staff members are “here to help the patients so they go out of their way to minimise the impact of the funding cuts”.

“Patients’ needs were also considered throughout the strike and measures were taken to ensure disruption to patients was minimised.

“We consistently see the same dedication and commitment to the health and wellbeing of patients, and to the continued provision of pharmacy services from community pharmacy despite funding barriers.

“Going forward it is essential that pharmacy secures sustainable funding that supports the provision of increased pharmacy services, and it is imperative that funders start to invest in pharmacy if we are to deliver on the goals set out in the New Zealand Health Strategy and the Draft Pharmacy Action Plan.”

ENDS

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