Despite a strike by workers, medical facilities in Auckland have stated that they have been able to manage with the number of patients coming in for treatment. The announcement by the facilities has come following a strike by the Medical Laboratory Workers Union.

The strike by the union would last for two days, and has had an impact on the working of two medical facilities, the Auckland City hospital and Starship Children’s Hospital. Surgeries being conducted in the hospitals have not faced any cancellations, even though there have been delays in carrying out procedures.

The Chief Medical Officer, Auckland DHB, Dr. Margaret Wilsher, while talking about the prevailing conditions and the impact of the industrial action on the working of hospitals has stated that patients coming into the emergency department would definitely face delays. Patients would also not be discharged from the hospital in ideal time. However, it would be made sure that patients receive the same care that is provided in regular working conditions.

The industrial action by the workers with Auckland DHB had started at midnight and will continue for another two days. The union has announced the participation of 350 workers, including 136 from Auckland DHB.

According to reports, it is being expected that workers from the Middlemore Hospital would be part of the strike tomorrow.