7 May 2018

New Caledonia private hospital staff suspend strike

10:42 am on 7 May 2018

A strike which shut New Caledonia's three private hospitals has been suspended.

Doctor checking X-Ray in hospital (generic).

Photo: 123RF

The strike was launched nearly two weeks ago over concern that reimbursements had not been adjusted for years, which the clinics in Noumea said threatened their viability.

A deal has been reached with the government for the clinics to reopen until May 20 to allow for mediation.

Late last week, midwives and physiotherapists joined general practitioners and specialists in their strike over reimbursments.

The strike increased pressure on the city's public hospital amid concern over the financial state of the public healthcare system because of its growing deficit.