Junior doctors, midwives to stop work at same time
Junior doctors and midwives will strike at the same time next week at Hawke’s Bay and Wairoa hospitals.
Resident medical officers (RMOs), or junior doctors, who are part of the Resident Doctors’ Association intend to strike for 48 hours from 8am on Tuesday until 8am on Thursday, Hawke’s Bay District Health Board said.
Midwives who are members of Midwifery Employee Representation and Advisory Service have planned a 12-hour strike, from 9.01am to 9.01pm, on Wednesday.
Life-preserving agreements with both unions were in place, the DHB said.
Chief medical and dental officer John Gommans said emergency and acute services would operate as normal, but some elective surgery and outpatient clinic appointments would be postponed.
Those affected have been contacted by the DHB and their appointments would be rescheduled.
“We are asking people to help us and to leave the Emergency Department for emergencies. If your health condition is not an emergency, we ask people to please see their family doctor, after-hours medical centre or call Healthline 0800 611 116.”
Gommans said City Medical, in Napier, would be open 24/7 for anyone needing medical care.
A full list of where to find medical care, including after hours, in Hawke’s Bay is available on www.ourhealthhb.nz
Gommans said women preparing for childbirth should not delay seeking advice and care and come to any scheduled appointments, unless they had been contacted to have it postponed.
“If you go into labour during the strike, follow your normal birth plan and let your lead maternity carer (LMC) know as you will have already planned.”
Gommans apologised to anyone affected by the strike action and thanked the public for their patience and support.
“I would also like to thank our staff who have worked extremely hard preparing for strike action. Our priority is to maintain a safe hospital.”
■ Anyone wanting further should contact the district health board on 06 878 8109.