Operations cancelled at Jersey’s General Hospital due to staff shortages

A number of planned operations at Jersey’s General Hospital are being cancelled because of staff shortages.

There are multiple reasons for the lack of staff, including unfilled positions, annual leave, sickness and forced isolation.

The Health Department describes the issue as “staffing pressures in our theatre suite” and is apologising to those affected.

ITV News first asked about the problem on Sunday after anecdotal reports circulated last Friday but confirmation was only made by government today (Friday 9 July).

Health officials say they understand the “distress” it will cause patients because of the short notice of the cancellations.

Officials say the situation will continue for a ‘short period’ and that emergency surgery is not affected.

The General Hospital remains open for patients and visitors and medics are encouraging patients to attend their appointments and are reminding visitors to wear face masks to protect both patients and staff.

Three members of staff have been brought in via an agency with another six more arriving over the next two weeks.