Isle of Man out-of-hours doctors service suspended for 12 weeks

Manx Care said the closure would be for an initial period of 12 weeks

An out-of-hours medical advice helpline will close overnight on weekdays for at least 12 weeks, Manx Care has said.

The Manx Emergency Doctor Service (Meds) will shut between 00:00 and 08:00 GMT from Monday until 31 March.

A spokeswoman said the change was "due to recent staffing issues" and "the significant reduction in demand during these hours".

The overnight service was affected by several closures throughout 2023.

Those who need overnight medical attention have been told go to the emergency department at Nobles hospital, or call 999 for an ambulance if necessary.

During the temporary suspension of the service, an on-call doctor will be available to support the Isle of Man Ambulance Service if needed, Manx Care said.

For non-emergencies, residents have been asked to contact their GP surgery during opening hours.

People have also been advised to attend the Minor Injuries and Illnesses Unit at Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital from 08:00 if appropriate, or a local pharmacy.

The healthcare provider also confirmed that from mid-January an additional locum GP would provide "additional capacity" for on-the-day appointments that could not be accommodated at a patient's own practice.

Each GP practice will be able to allocate a number of extra appointments, which will be offered in Douglas.

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