Omicron sparks a staffing crisis in hospitals

Over 100 workers self-isolating amid Covid outbreaks

Lanarkshire hospitals are facing a staffing crisis as hard-working medics have been forced into isolation.

The Reformer understands more than 100 members of staff in the region are currently selfisolating having either tested positive for Covid or been in contact with someone who has..

The outbreaks appear to be at Hairmyres Hospital and Wishaw General, with an outbreak at the region’s third hospital, Monklands, also expected.

One source said the hospitals are now in “crisis mode”.

An NHS Lanarkshire spokesman refused to confirm how many staff are currently isolating, however, a source told us the figures were “not inaccurate”.

Russell Coulthard, NHS Lanarkshire deputy director of acute services, confirmed a number of staff had tested positive and were isolating.

He said: “Our ‘test and protect’ team has carried out contact tracing with a number of staff having been identified as close contacts and are isolating for a 10-day period in line with current national guidance.

“This is adding to existing staffing challenges across health services. We are deploying staff from other areas to ensure our services can deliver effective patient care.”

Health bosses say the emergence of the new Omicron variant – which may be “three times more transmissible” than the Delta variant – is already having a negative impact on their services, which they expect to continue in the coming weeks.

Staff have been asked to pay particular attention to staying “Covidsafe” during the Christmas and New Year festive season.

Mr Coulthard added: “We urge our staff and the public to do all they can to minimise the risk of spreading infection.

“Take regular lateral flow tests, especially before you socialise, continue to wear a face covering, maintain good hand hygiene, ventilate rooms and get your vaccine. We also urge the people of Lanarkshire to access the right care at the right place and keep emergency departments free for those with emergency care needs.”

On Friday, NHS Lanarkshire announced they are to suspend all but essential visiting at hospitals across the area.

Also last week, NHS Lanarkshire’s chief executive together with North and South Lanarkshire Council bosses urged locals to protect vital services from Omicron.