In response to the recent extended period of industrial action by junior doctors, Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals were able to minimise disruption and look after patients thanks to a team of incredibly dedicated staff working alongside our community partners and patients choosing services wisely.
This latest strike took place at a time when the Trust is already very busy and in high demand due to winter pressures and the festive season. Thanks to the support and unity in the hospital and community, the Trust was able to prioritise the care of those patients with critical needs.
Well-rehearsed plans and teamwork underpinned the care of patients with the most serious health conditions. Staff across the hospital embraced night shifts, sacrificed personal leave, changed their working location, expedited diagnoses and re-scheduled appointments to ensure the safe discharge and care of critical patients.
Julie Smith, Chief Executive at Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals said: “I am hugely grateful to our incredible staff and community partners whose determination, and personal sacrifices ensured that critical patients were prioritised and cancer treatment was protected during this time.
“I would also like to extend my thanks to those patients who only came to the hospital in emergency situations and accessed other services for treatment including walk-in centres, pharmacies or contacted NHS111 for urgent health advice.”
