Hospital staff shortages force surgery cancellations

Friday 09 July 2021

Some elective surgery procedures have had to be cancelled due to staff shortages in the hospital’s theatre suite.

A combination of staff sickness, annual leave and vacancies left the hospital without enough people to cover some procedures, although emergency surgery is able to continue as normal. The Government said this will be "for a short period only."

“We are sorry for the inconvenience and distress caused and for the short notice some of our patients received," a Health Department spokesperson said.

“We recognise that coming into hospital can be a daunting experience and the impact that cancellations have on our patients, their families and carers and all our staff."

They said they were making "every effort to reschedule appointments.”

The spokesperson added: “Health and Community Services, including Jersey General Hospital, remain open for patients and visitors.

“We encourage patients to attend their appointments and remind visitors to wear face masks in a healthcare setting and to follow current covid-19 guidelines to protect patients and staff.”