Manx Care issues warning amid ongoing snow disruption

May be more difficult to get to hospital if you need it at this time

The ambulance service is at its highest level of pressure and Manx Care sites are currently experiencing critical staffing pressures.

It's due to travel difficulties and the ongoing weather forecast. 

In a statement the healthcare service says it's expecting further staff to arrive across its sites but they are significantly delayed. 

As a result any outpatient appointments, endoscopy appointments and vaccine appointments planned for today (Tuesday) will be cancelled.

People are being asked not to attend if this affects them.

Patients who are booked for elective procedures are asked to contact their admission ward.

Patients scheduled for oncology treatment should contact the Oncology Unit as soon as possible.

All community antenatal and postnatal clinics are being rescheduled and a member of staff will contact those affected to rearrange. 

This will affect Palatine Group Practice antenatal clinic, Finch Hill Practice antenatal clinic, Hailwood Practice antenatal clinic, and Central Community Health Centre postnatal hub clinic. 

Aqua natal is also cancelled for today. 

If any pregnant woman has any concerns, or needs advice, they should not hesitate to contact the maternity unit on 650030.

In a statement, Manx Care said: "These decisions have not been taken lightly. Whilst some roads may be accessible, the safety of patients and colleagues travelling to and from Manx Care sites across the Island is our priority."

Additionally, the ambulance service is operating at REAP 4 which is the highest level of pressure due to issues across the road network, "therefore response to 999 calls will be significantly impacted".

The Manx Emergency Doctors Service (MEDS) is reserved for emergencies. For anything routine Manx Care is asking people to contact their own GP practice.

The Minor Injuries and Illnesses Unit (MIU) in Ramsey is available and is staffed by an Emergency Medicine Consultant today. 

The unit has X-Ray capability.

The Manx Care Advice and Liaison Service (MCALS) is picking up voicemails and will respond to emails.