COMMUNICATIONS

Medical Radiation Technologists Strikes

Canterbury District Health Board, along with six other DHBs, is preparing for two more days of strike action from Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs), who perform x-rays, CT, MRI, ultrasound and other diagnostic scans.

The Association of Professional and Executive Employees (APEX) has advised that its members will strike next week on Tuesday 19 September and Thursday 21 September.

The MRTs were on strike Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of this week. “While hospital services were at times very busy and there were a number of requests to APEX for life preserving cover, there were no major incidents at CDHB hospitals,” General Manager Hospital and Specialist Service Jock Muir said.

“I am very grateful to our staff for their fine planning, communication and commitment to doing the very best for patients during this difficult time,” he said.

“The support of the After Hours Surgery and private providers has also been vital in maintaining crucial health services for Canterbury people.”

Contingency planning for next week’s strikes is well underway.

APEX has agreed to the provision of only 'life preserving services', during the strikes.

This means that anyone with a potentially life threatening condition will have access to the x-ray or scan that they need but that Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch Women's Hospital, Burwood Hospital and Ashburton Hospital will be offering limited services only during these strike periods.

Some non-urgent/planned surgery, along with some outpatient appointments will be affected and some services will be cancelled during this time. Pre-booked patients affected by these changes are being contacted directly.

On Tuesday and Thursday, people with hand, arm, leg, foot and minor injuries who would normally make their own way to Christchurch Hospital’s Emergency Department should go to the After Hours Surgery in Bealey Ave, where there are x-ray facilities. For major injuries, people should not hesitate to seek immediate help from Emergency Services, who will know what to do. If people are in any doubt about what to do, they should phone their GP or the After Hours Surgery.

Other patients may be asked to visit one of the private radiology providers for their x-ray or scan. These examinations will be paid for by Canterbury District Health Board.

For further information call Canterbury District Health Board on 0800 2255 60.

ENDS

Media Contact – Michele Hider, CDHB Communications Manager, Ph 364 4103 or 0275 314 796