NHS Lanarkshire postpones operations because of covid pressure
The health board has confirmed a "small number of planned surgeries'' have had to be cancelled because of rising case numbers.
Last updated 8th Jul 2021
Operations in Lanarkshire are being postponed because of the pressure caused by increasing numbers of patients and staff infected with coronavirus.
They are being pushed back so medical teams can focus on the most-urgent cases and patients.
NHS Lanarkshire has confirmed a "small number of planned surgeries'' have had to be cancelled because of the mounting pressure of rising case numbers.
In total, 18 procedures will be rescheduled: five general surgery cases and eight new and five return outpatient operations.
The health board's chief executive, Heather Knox, said: "We have seen exceptionally high numbers of people attending our emergency departments.
"Over recent weeks, we have seen higher numbers than we would normally see during the winter period and our staff are, struggling to cope.
"We would encourage people to seek advice from NHS inform or NHS 24 on 111 before they attend A&E.
"We have also seen an increase in the number of people admitted to hospital with Covid-19 and this is an additional pressure while we are trying to recover services and treat those patients who need our care; people who have planned operations which we are desperate to do.
"We also have staffing pressures as we currently have staff who are having to self-isolating due to contacts out of work.
"These combined pressures mean that we have had to take some difficult decisions. Unfortunately, we have had to cancel a small number of planned surgeries at University Hospital Wishaw for the rest of this week.
"This is not a decision we take lightly and I would like to apologise for any upset caused.''
Paul Sweeney MSP, said:
"This announcement from Glasgow Life will come as a body blow to the hundreds of dedicated, long serving staff who have kept the city's cultural assets flourishing for decades.
"It's abundantly clear that the Scottish Government's disproportionate cuts to Glasgow City Council, coupled with an SNP administration in Glasgow that refuses to speak out, has resulted in Glasgow Life becoming an easy target and unfortunately it will be the workers and the city at large who suffer as a consequence. "
"The Scottish Government have slashed Glasgow's budget over the last decade, so it's simply not credible to blame these cuts on a loss of revenue due to Covid-19 restrictions.
"We must never forget that Glasgow Life is an institution that is rooted in the heart of our communities - from libraries to museums and community centres.
"It provides a lifeline for many of the most vulnerable people across the city and for them, this announcement will be devastating."
"It's now time for Glasgow's politicians, regardless of political party, to stand up and say to the Scottish Government that enough is enough - Glasgow must have the funds it both needs and deserves to thrive."
"A refusal to do so is a dereliction of duty and a failure of the people of Glasgow."
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