11 July 2018

Whanganui District Health Board (WDHB) has confirmed its contingency planning is in place for the 24-hour nurses’ strike, from 7am Thursday 12 July, says WDHB Allied Health director Kim Fry.

“We have been planning to ensure that our patients and staff are as safe as possible throughout the strike but unfortunately, this does mean some disruption to services,” Ms Fry says.

“Please be reassured that Whanganui Hospital remains open. Life preserving services are available during the strike period. Those needing urgent care will receive it.

“However, we are advising people not to come to the Emergency Department (ED) unless they are seriously unwell.”

People with non-urgent health issues are urged to do what they would normally do - call Healthline (0800 611 116) for free advice, visit a pharmacy or contact their GP. In an emergency they should dial 111 for an ambulance.

To reduce demand on our services, non-urgent (elective) surgery has been deferred until after the strike. Those people affected have been contacted.

We have liaised with external providers to provide additional support. It’s important to note that Allied Health including Radiology (x-rays, MRI scans and sonography) and mobile dental units will be working as normal.

Anyone who has a concern during the 12 July strike is invited to call 0800 113 887 between 8.30am and 4.30pm

11 July 2018

Whanganui District Health Board (WDHB) has confirmed its contingency planning is in place for the 24-hour nurses’ strike, from 7am Thursday 12 July, says WDHB Allied Health director Kim Fry.

“We have been planning to ensure that our patients and staff are as safe as possible throughout the strike but unfortunately, this does mean some disruption to services,” Ms Fry says.

“Please be reassured that Whanganui Hospital remains open. Life preserving services are available during the strike period. Those needing urgent care will receive it.

“However, we are advising people not to come to the Emergency Department (ED) unless they are seriously unwell.”

People with non-urgent health issues are urged to do what they would normally do - call Healthline (0800 611 116) for free advice, visit a pharmacy or contact their GP. In an emergency they should dial 111 for an ambulance.

To reduce demand on our services, non-urgent (elective) surgery has been deferred until after the strike. Those people affected have been contacted.

We have liaised with external providers to provide additional support. It’s important to note that Allied Health including Radiology (x-rays, MRI scans and sonography) and mobile dental units will be working as normal.

Anyone who has a concern during the 12 July strike is invited to call 0800 113 887 between 8.30am and 4.30pm.