More cutbacks have been announced at Ramsey Cottage Hospital.

Health chiefs have confirmed a temporary reduction in the opening hours at the minor injuries unit for the next four weeks due to staffing shortages.

It’s more disappointing news for residents in the north of the Island who have already seen the hospital lose its 24-hour GP cover.

James Davis reports (audio file attached):

From Monday, the unit has closed each evening at 8pm rather than the normal 10 o’clock.
A statement from the DHSS said the decision had been made with 'great reluctance' but the shortages were placing a considerable burden on remaining staff, and the decision was necessary in the interests of patient and staff well-being.
It also said the two hours lost were considered the quietest time for the unit and would therefore hopefully cause as little impact as possible on patient care.
Nurses employed at the Unit are specialist practitioners and there are currently no additional qualified nurses available to the hospital.
Patients requiring treatment during the period of 8pm to 10 o’clock should seek alternative care, either through the MEDS out-of-hours GP Service, Noble's Hospital, or the Emergency Services as appropriate.