See GP early says hospital

Southland Hospital is advising people to see their doctor early rather than overload the emergency department while medical radiation technologists continue industrial action.

The MRTs do x-rays, ultrasound, CRT scans and mammograms, and were on strike for 24 hours, which was to finish at 8am today.

The MRTs are at loggerheads with district health boards throughout the country over certain conditions in their contracts.

In addition to the one-day strike, they are continuing to "work to rule", meaning no overtime, adhering strictly to breaks and working at a normal pace.

Southland Hospital chief operating officer Lexie O'Shea said all patients affected yesterday and throughout the strike had been rebooked for appointments.

She said the contingency planning team had done a fantastic job of managing the situation but urged people to "keep the emergency department for emergencies" while the strike action continued.

People should see their doctor early in the day for non-emergency treatment, rather than waiting to see if they got worse and having to attend emergency department in the evenings, she said.

The MRTs have been continuing to provide their services in life- threatening situations.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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