NZNO strike update

Statement from Southern DHB, Chief Executive, Chris Fleming:

Our hospitals are busy but are coping as we progress through this 8 hour strike by NZNO members.

I am very grateful to staff for the work in advance of today’s strike. Our focus today has been on implementing the contingency plans with patient safety the priority, and ensuring our hospitals are able to manage essential and acute care during the strike period.

In addition to excellent contingency planning before the strike, our staff have done an outstanding job today. The commitment to working together, supporting patients, their families and each other has helped to minimise the disruption as much as possible.

We greatly appreciate the understanding of patients and whānau during this time especially those who have had planned procedures and appointments postponed.

I would also like to extend my thanks to Southern DHB staff and our colleagues in general practice and other health services in the community who provided additional support and care as it has been required today.