The strike action will be in the form of a complete withdrawal of labour, from all DHBs around the country, for 24 hours from 7am on 5 July. Notice for a second 24-hour strike from 7am on 12 July is expected next week.
Wairarapa DHB will prioritise patient safety leading up to and throughout the strike, and we expect to maintain only the very minimum of services during that time.
We have been preparing for this event and, over the next few days, we will be implementing our contingency plan. Critical care and life preserving services arrangements are in place.
All outpatient clinics on the strike dates will be rescheduled and some services, such as elective surgery, will close well before the strike date to ensure the number of patients in the hospital when the strike begins is as low as possible. Patients whose appointments/surgeries are affected will be contacted and new appointment dates provided.
Medical practices have been advised of the specific service impacts and how the strike will affect their patients.
We will be communicating directly with staff and with the wider community. People presenting at our emergency department during the period affected by the strike may experience delays, and we will be asking the community to keep ED free for emergencies. As always, medical practices, after hours services and Healthline (phone 0800 611 116) is available for Wairarapa people needing non-urgent healthcare during this time.
Community nursing services will have limited cover. Child and Adolescent Mental Health will operate as normal, and Adult Mental Health will not be booking routine appointments that day, but will be available for crisis and respite support, as well as for after-hours services.
This website has information about how to find a GP or your closest after hours service.
Anyone unsure about whether they need ED care should contact their GP or call Healthline (0800 611 116) for free advice from a registered nurse.
