Hospital preparations ahead of industrial action

HOSPITALS in the Saolta Group – which includes Mayo University Hospital - are continuing to put contingency plans in place in advance of tomorrow’s industrial action.

Across each of the hospitals, patients whose procedures or appointments are being cancelled are being contacted directly – this mostly relates to inpatient elective procedures, scopes and day case procedures.

Some outpatient clinics have also been cancelled – it varies from hospital to hospital but patients are being notified directly. If patients do not hear from their hospital they should attend their appointment as scheduled.

Emergency departments will remain operational across the group although patients can expect significant delays. At Roscommon University Hospital, the injury unit will remain open.

A statement issued by the group confirmed that critical care areas such as ICU and HDU will function as normal. Chemotherapy treatment and dialysis will proceed as scheduled across the group.

There will be reduced or very limited catering services for both patients and staff in some hospitals in the group.

The statement added: 'We regret the inconvenience for patients and will work to reschedule their appointments as quickly as possible.'