28 Feb 2010

Industrial action could delay radiology services

5:51 pm on 28 February 2010

Patients needing x-rays or other radiology services may face delays from Monday as radiographers take industrial action at hospitals in more than six health districts.

The union representing the radiographers says industrial action is a last resort after failed wage negotiations with their employer, District Health Boards New Zealand (DHBNZ).

DHBNZ, which represents almost all of New Zealand's DHBs, says contingency plans will be in place at effected hospitals but patients may have to wait longer.

Forty radiographers at Hawke's Bay Hospital have been working to rule since Friday.

The Association of Professionals and Executive Employees national advocate, Deborah Powell, says members working for Capital and Coast, Hutt Valley, Counties Manukau, Southland, and Whanganui DHBs will take action on Monday.

She says radiographers from all other health boards are planning action shortly.