COMMUNICATIONS

CDHB puts plans in place for proposed doctors’ strike

Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch Women’s Hospital, Burwood Hospital, The Princess Margaret Hospital, Ashburton Hospital and Hillmorton Hospital will be offering limited services during the proposed Resident Medical Officers’ strike from 15 June until 20 June 2006.

Canterbury District Health Board, which administers these hospitals, was one of New Zealand’s 21 District Health Boards issued with notice of the RMOs’ strike by the Resident Doctors’ Association on 31 May.

Non-urgent/planned surgery, along with some out-patient appointments and mental health clinics will be affected by the strike action and some services will be cancelled. Patients affected by these changes will be contacted directly.

All non-urgent patients who come to Emergency Departments will be asked to seek help from their family doctor or nearest medical centre.

Christchurch Women’s Hospital, Burwood Birthing Unit, Lincoln Hospital, Rangiora Hospital and Ashburton Hospital will be accepting women in labour.

For all non-urgent illnesses and injuries, people will be advised to see their family doctor and keep the Emergency Departments for emergencies only.

A hotline has been set up for people seeking further information about the strike. This number is 0800 2255 60.

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Michele Hider,

Communications Manager

The spokesperson for this matter is Dr Nigel Millar, Chief Medical Officer, Canterbury District Health Board.