NHS Highland confirms wave of appointments cancellations as the board reveals it will observe the public holiday for the Queen's funeral on Monday meaning many patients will have to reschedule when they are seen by clinicians
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NHS Highland has revealed it will take part in the public holiday for the funeral of the Queen, sparking a wave of appointment cancellations across the region.
Like other public bodies, the health board will observe the holiday on Monday September 19 which means only the “most time-critical or high risk” appointments will go ahead.
The Scottish Government has given NHS Highland the discretion to decide what key services will operate on the day and that will be done based on an "assessment of risk, time criticality, availability of staffing and the preference of our patients."
But according to NHS Highland chief executive Pam Dudek patient's "preferences" only extend as far as those considered "the most time-critical or high risk" while “many planned appointments will be cancelled."
Local A&E departments across Highland, Argyll and Bute will remain open for those who have a life-threatening emergency.
Given the waiting times, pressures and the demand for medical attention, the news is not likely to be welcomed by many patients.
What NHS Highland boss said
NHS Highland chief executive Pam Dudek said: “We will observe the national day of mourning to recognise the significance of the death of the Queen and the majority of our colleagues will not be working on that day.
“We recognise that many of our colleagues will still be rostered to work on this day and we thank them in advance for their dedication and commitment.
“For patients who have scheduled treatment or clinics on Monday 19th September, our intention is that only the most time-critical or high risk will go ahead and we will be making contact with those patients directly to confirm that they will still be seen and to confirm they wish to proceed with the appointment.
“This means that many planned appointments will be cancelled and we will be contacting those impacted directly to make them aware of this, over the coming days.
“However, some local variation will be expected due to the complexity of the situation and this will be communicated and agreed locally with any patients who are impacted.”
GPs, primary care services like Pharmacies and Optometrists affected too
Mrs Dudek said: “Any patients who do not wish to attend a scheduled appointment on Monday 19th September are asked to contact the service as soon as possible to let staff know. We will take steps to ensure your appointment is rescheduled as soon as possible.
“All of our GP’s and Primary Care services such as Pharmacies and Optometrists are entitled to the Public Holiday and we understand the majority will be taking this on Monday, 19 September.
"They will communicate with communities locally where services will be maintained and alternative arrangements to access care in place."
Covid vaccination clinics to continue
“Our scheduled Covid-19 vaccination clinics across Highland, Argyll and Bute will continue as planned," Mrs Dudek said.
"Anyone with an appointment who does not wish to attend on this date should contact 08000 320 339 to let us know, and we can arrange another appointment. Please note the Hub will be closed on Monday, 19 September.
“On behalf of the board I want to thank our colleagues for their ongoing support and commitment to delivery care across Highland, Argyll and Bute. We take very seriously our responsibilities to deliver care to our communities and emergency care provision will be available at all times over this period.
“We are seeking to ensure that the impact the life and death of Her Majesty the Queen has for many patients and colleagues and colleagues, and the desire to collectively mourn her death can be supported to the greatest possible extent and we thank our patients and communities for their understanding and support.”
