THURSDAY, JANUARY 24, 2019

District Health Boards are disappointed that the Resident Doctors’ Association has rejected attempts to resolve the current rostering dispute and prevent another two-day strike by trainee doctors next week.

DHB spokesman Dr Peter Bramley says DHBs have been in mediation looking for ways to settle the current pay round and prevent disrupting some patient services.

“DHBs have always bargained in good faith with the RDA and were looking forward to discussions about how to reach an agreement.

“Unfortunately, the RDA had no new suggestions on the DHBs proposals to address the crucial issues of supporting local flexibility in rostering to provide better care and training.

“It’s hard to find a solution when the RDA is already balloting for more strikes in February – that’s hardly good faith and suggests it had already made up its mind to keep striking.

Dr Bramley says hospitals have been making contingencies in preparation for the strikes and will notify any affected patients.

“Essential and emergency services will be maintained during the strike next Tuesday and Wednesday and people should not delay seeking medical treatment if needed.

“We will do what we can to find a way through this dispute.

“The issues at stake for DHBs are crucial to supporting the way patient care is delivered at a local level.

“Quality patient care that provides meaningful training in a safe environment is something we all want, and DHBs will eventually find a settlement that will help us provide that.”

ENDS

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