Concern following serious healthcare disruption

SDLP Opposition Health Spokesperson Colin McGrath MLA has expressed concern following reports of serious disruption within local health services.

It follows IT issues across the Southern Trust area.

South Down Mr McGrath said:

“While the details of what has happened will cause understandable concern, it is essential that the Trust work to reassure the public. Patients should not be left feeling frightened or uncertain about their care. Where appointments have been lost or delayed, the Trust must act quickly to ensure that these are rescheduled without undue wait.

“Clear and consistent communication with the public is essential. People deserve to know exactly what has happened, how it affects them, and what steps are being taken to put things right. That openness is the best way to maintain confidence in our health system.

“I will be raising this issue directly with the Health Minister to ensure that the necessary actions are taken swiftly and that this type of disruption is not repeated. Patients and families rely on our health service in times of greatest need, and they must be able to trust that it will be there for them when required.”

Newry & Armagh MLA Justin McNulty said:

“This IT outage creates chaos and concern for patients in Newry and right across the Southern Trust Area. People awaiting important treatments have had their appointments cancelled, while ambulances are being diverted. Naturally this is causing real worry and distress for those affected.

“In the midst of this turmoil I hope that people can remain calm as work goes on to resolve this issue. Large numbers of people have been impacted by this incident and it’s important that we work to understand how this has happened and ensure systems are put in place to prevent a repeat in future.”