<html>
<head>
<meta http-equiv="content-type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8">
</head>
<body>
<i>From NHS Orkney:</i><br>
<br>
NHS Orkney is experiencing the same winter pressures which are being
felt up and down the country across all health boards.<br>
Our priority is to maintain patient safety and we are seeing a
higher-than-normal level of staff absence. This is unsurprising
following the Covid cluster, increasing cases of RSV and staff
staying at home to look after unwell children.<br>
In order to protect key services, we have had to postpone some
surgeries which were scheduled for today, and further surgery may be
disrupted in the days to come. We will notify patients as early as
possible and understand the frustration this will cause, however
this is for everyone’s safety. Please be assured we don’t make these
decisions lightly.<br>
It is essential our staff are well enough to come to work,
especially when caring for vulnerable patients. We’re asking you to
bear with us - we’re all working together to ensure we continue to
provide the best level of service.<br>
Please help us by continuing to wash your hands frequently and use
hand sanitiser if out and about. If blowing your nose or coughing,
use a tissue and dispose of it appropriately immediately. If unwell
with respiratory symptoms, try to limit your contact with others
wherever possible.<br>
</body>
</html>