THE HSE have announced the cancellation of all non-urgent healthcare services and appointments across the country.
The announcement comes after nurses and midwives of Letterkenny University Hospital held a lunchtime strike yesterday.
The disruption is part of a widespread public services strike next Wednesday and Wednesday, October 21.
The HSE has said they are expecting significant and widespread disruption to many services.
In a statement they said: “The HSE is currently planning for the cancellation of all non-urgent healthcare services across hospitals and community settings on Wednesday, October 14.
“This includes routine hospital procedures, outpatient appointments, community based services, such as day services, clinics in primary care services and other scheduled care services.
“HSE administrative services will also be impacted by this work stoppage.”
They added that healthcare teams are beginning to contact affected patients directly and all appointments will be rescheduled as soon as possible.
The statement continued: “Emergency departments, ambulance services (curtailed service) and other critical, time-sensitive healthcare services, such as urgent cancer treatment and dialysis, will continue.
“People requiring urgent medical attention should not delay seeking care and dial 999 or 112 or attend their nearest Emergency Department.
“GPs, GP out-of-hours, and pharmacists remain available in the community.”
The HSE said they are engaging with health sector unions to develop a more complete understanding of what care can continue to be during this disruption.
Further updates will be provided as soon as more information becomes available.
They added: “The HSE regrets the inconvenience caused to patients and their families and is grateful for people’s patience and understanding during this time.”