Talks to keep clinics open
NEGOTIATIONS about keeping clinics open at Raigmore Hospital on Thursday were ongoing yesterday as hundreds of patients face having appointments postponed when doctors stage industrial action for the first time in nearly 40 years.
Outpatient clinics, day surgery and elective surgery will be cancelled due to the action by British Medical Association members opposing changes to the NHS pension scheme.
It is estimated 51 clinic appointments and four elective surgery appointments will be postponed at Raigmore Hospital.
Core services will continue as normal, including cancer treatments, renal dialysis and emergency mental health.
The Highlands’ largest hospital has 20 outpatient clinics a day on average, treating between 200 and 300 patients. Doctors will still ensure any emergency treatment is given.