Our Emergency Departments do not turn anyone away who is seeking medical help.
We know that waiting can be frustrating and stressful, especially if you are not feeling well. Our sickest patients are seen first. If you are waiting and have a concern, please approach the triage nurse. Our Emergency Department staff are working extremely hard 24/7 to provide the best care they can for all patients.
Our busy hospitals also mean we have to prioritise all health care appropriately. We know some patients are facing long waits for planned operations and tests. We apologise for this and encourage you to stay connected with your health care team to discuss any concerns or to ask questions. We know waiting is stressful, and we appreciate your patience, kindness and understanding. Please remember there is a member of your community behind the mask looking after you.
As we head into the cooler months, I encourage you to get prepared for winter. Are your vaccinations up to date?
It is time to check in with your GP to discuss any non-urgent health concerns? Do you need to pick up repeat prescriptions to ensure you have your medications at hand?
Finally, I would like to acknowledge and thank our health care workforce.
Our teams are all working above and beyond every day to care for our community and I am very proud of their commitment and hard work.
From Hamish Brown, Te Whatu Ora Interim Lead – Hospital and Specialist Services for Southern
Check out our other stories:
New Dunedin Hospital Outpatient Building on track
International Women's Day celebrated
Te Whatu Ora Southern on OARsome Morning Show
On the right track
Getting to Dunedin Hospital
Are your vaccinations up to date?
Congratulations to our new Nurse Practitioners