Hospital warns of disruption due to strike (From Warrington Guardian)

Warrington Hospital warns of strike disruption

11:16am Tuesday 8th May 2012 in News

HOSPITAL patients have been warned there could be some disruption to non-urgent services on Thursday due to a Unite union strike.

Health chiefs have said some non-urgent surgical procedures have been cancelled and patients affected are being contacted by phone and letter.

The national day of action includes Unite members in operating theatres, pharmacy, domestic services, estates and pathology but talks have ensured urgent cases, cancer procedures and emergency work can carry on as planned.

Outpatient appointments will also be running as usual on the day.

Karen Dawber, director of governance and workforce at Warrington and Halton Hospitals, said: “We have a good relationship with our union colleagues from Unite at the hospitals and whilst recognising their right to strike following the national ballots, we have worked to make sure that essential and urgent surgery is able to run as usual where possible.

“Unfortunately, there will be some disruption to non-emergency surgery on the day but we are trying to minimise that as much as we can and will reschedule any routine operations that have been cancelled as soon as possible.

“Outpatient appointments are going ahead as planned so if you have not heard from us, please assume that there is no change to your appointment.”

Check warringtonandhaltonhospitals.nhs.uk for updates.