Key services to be maintained during doctor strike

Doctors are set to walk out for 48 hours from 22 January

Emergency services will operate "as normal" but some pre-booked appointments will be postponed during a planned strike by doctors over pay next week.

The British Medical Association (BMA) has announced its members will walk out for 48 hours from 07:00 on 22 January following unsuccessful negotiations.

Manx Care said most nurse and practitioner-led clinics would continue, but doctor-led appointments at Noble's Hospital would be cancelled.

A spokeswoman said patients would be informed by no later than 15:00 GMT on Tuesday if an appointment will not be going ahead.

The union had called for a 12.6% pay rise for 2023-24, arguing some of its members had faced "real term cuts" of up to 19% in pay since 2008.

Manx Care rejected the request, describing it as "unaffordable".

'Ensure minimal disruption'

During the planned action renal dialysis is scheduled to go ahead as planned.

While scans at the maternity unit would continue, consultant appointments at the department are set to be rearranged.

Chemotherapy services would proceed, but other appointments with cancer and diagnostic services were at risk of cancellation, Manx Care said.

Residents due to be admitted to hospital for an operation or procedure, who have an appointment at the diabetes centre, with the mental health service, or drug and alcohol services have been told to attend appointments unless otherwise informed.

The majority of GP practices would be unaffected but some may experience reduced cover, the healthcare provider warned

However, dentists and the the minor injuries unit at Ramsey Cottage Hospital are set to remain open.

In a statement, Manx Care said was working to "ensure minimal disruption to services and patient care" during the period.

Emergency services would be operating as normal, and people should continue to call 999 in the event of an emergency, it said.

"If the industrial action does not go ahead, we will endeavour to contact affected patients by the end of Tuesday to reinstate appointments where possible," it added.

The Department of Health and Social Care previously said the healthcare provider and the BMA were "working hard jointly to arrive at a settlement that is both fair on pay and affordable within the budget".