Patients in limbo after operations cancelled
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OVER 16,000 patients whose hospital appointments were cancelled as a result of yesterday's strike are unsure when they will be called again for their operation or outpatient visit.
The HSE was last night unable to give any firm time for when they will get their procedure or appointment -- although many have already been waiting months.
HSE Director of Quality and Clinical Care Dr Joe Devlin said: "We regret any inconvenience caused to patients by the postponement of non-emergency procedures due to the industrial action.
"The HSE will be making every effort to ensure that appointments are rescheduled as soon as possible."
Hospitals were reduced to an emergency service yesterday, although a spokesperson said they remained very busy, particularly in emergency departments.
Patients who went to A&E departments reported delays as the skeleton staff concentrated on those in critical need.
However, most heeded the warnings to stay away from emergency units unless absolutely necessary.
- Eilish O'Regan Health Correspondent
Irish Independent
