Junior doctors on strike, health facilities on emergency mode

The Ministry of Health and Wellness say that due to junior doctors across the island taking industrial action through a sickout, all health facilities are on emergency mode.

The workers took action to press the Government to address compensation issues.

The ministry says that under the current situation while emergency rooms remain open, outpatient services and elective surgeries have been significantly scaled down or otherwise suspended.

Health centres have also been affected.

So far today, there has been a reported 16 per cent doctor turnout in primary care in the Western Regional Health Authority and 28 per cent in the North East Regional Health Authority.

The Southern Regional Health Authority has reported a 36 per cent turnout while Kingston and St Andrew have reported an 18 per cent turnout and St Thomas, 66 per cent, also in primary care.

At the same time, there are some hospitals and health centres that have reported as high as 100 per cent no show for their junior doctors.

The health ministry says every effort is being made to mitigate the impact of the protest by the doctors on the health system.

As a result, elective procedures and outpatient appointments at hospitals have been rescheduled.

So too clinics at health centres.

To support the public during this time, the Ministry advises the following:

1) Avoid hospital visits where possible:

· For non-urgent medical advice, contact your private physician.

2) Maintain health precautions:

· Follow basic hygiene practises, including frequent handwashing, to prevent seasonal illnesses, including colds and flu.

· Manage existing health conditions by taking prescribed medications and adhering to treatment plans.

3) Access emergency care responsibly:

· In life-threatening situations, visit your nearest emergency department.

· For urgent care needs that are not emergencies, contact your private physician.

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