K.H.M.H. short twenty-four doctors in “sick-out”

While at the K.H.M.H., News Five found out that some patients were being turned away. K.H.M.H. C.E.O., Francis Longsworth, said he had heard rumblings about the sick-out and was rushing away to put a plan in place.

Dr. Francis Longsworth, C.E.O., K.H.M.H.
“There were rumours yes, from yesterday that this might happen but I was hoping that the doctors would have put the best interest of the patients first and refrain from this type of activity.”

Keith Swift, Channel Seven
“Can you tell what is that contingency plan? Can you give us an idea what is it?”

Dr. Francis Longsworth
“Well, I would have to discuss it with my management staff first.”

Marion Ali
“Your doctors that they feel that this was their last resort. They feel that their backs were against the wall.”

Dr. Francis Longsworth
“There is no need for this to be a last resort. We have offered to go through the mediation process, the arbitration process. We in fact have agreed with several of the points in their M.O.U. It’s just that they are not willing to negotiate any single point at all and that’s what’s stalling the process. So there’s no need for this.”

Keith Swift
“Will the K.H.M.H. be able to continue delivering service to the people? Should they be concerned coming here? Will there be a doctor to see them?”

Dr. Francis Longsworth
“Well, we have to see what we can do to maintain the services in this hospital.”

Marion Ali
“I was here this morning when patients were turned back because specialist treatment…”

Dr. Francis Longsworth
“Then please allow me to go and deal with it. That’s all I’m saying.”

Marion Ali
“I’m just saying that patients are being turned back as it is as we speak. Do you have a message for them?”

Dr. Francis Longsworth
“Yes, it is a serious issue. We will try to deal with it as urgently as we can. That’s all I can say at this time.”