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Doctor shortages suspend services GP says services must be resumed
(about 1 hour later)
The Erne and Tyrone County hospitals have suspended some gynaecology services due to a shortage of junior doctors. A GP from Omagh has said suspended gynaecological services in hospitals in Omagh and Enniskillen need to be resumed "as quickly as possible".
The Erne and Tyrone County hospitals have suspended some services due to a shortage of junior doctors.
The Western Trust had appointed six, but only one has so far started.The Western Trust had appointed six, but only one has so far started.
Dr Josephine Deehan said it was "very disappointing and alarming news" and it was "unparalleled that a service would be simply suspended".
"I spoke to the trust on Tuesday and a spokesperson told me that there would be a team of senior clinicians and trust managers who will visit the Erne Hospital on Wednesday to assess the situation," she said.
"Because of the large geographical area that has to be covered, from the most southern aspect of Fermanagh to the north of the province, I think the distances involved are such that patient safety can't be assured.
"It would be my hope that normal gynacaelogical services will resume as quickly as possible."
Alternative measures such as filling gaps with locum doctors are being looked at.Alternative measures such as filling gaps with locum doctors are being looked at.
Until the issue can be resolved, all routine gynaecological patients will be sent to Altnagelvin Hospital in Londonderry.Until the issue can be resolved, all routine gynaecological patients will be sent to Altnagelvin Hospital in Londonderry.
However, emergency cases will be assessed in the Erne's accident and emergency department. However, maternity services will be maintained at the Erne and emergency cases will be assessed in it's accident and emergency department.