Yesterday, while your HSU Organiser was on site, members raised the issue of an additional 10 beds in the Close Observation Unit being opened. The HSU was unable to provide any answers to these questions because we have not been notified of this change by HNELHD.

Members at Maitland Hospital are overworked. Regular USCC meetings with executive managers are occurring to address the understaffing and excessive workloads. The HSU is perplexed by actions taken by the hospital to add an additional 10 beds without consultation.

Late yesterday, the HSU wrote to Maitland Hospital management to seek further details.

Soon after contacting management, the HSU received correspondence to advise of the opening of surge beds. The letter received has very limited details around additional staffing.

The HSU will continue to fight for proper staffing at Maitland Hospital, including newly opened areas, to fight back against unmanageable workloads.

Do you know someone who isn’t an HSU member? Tell them to get on board and have their say. New members can join at www.hsu.asn.au/join or call 1300 478 679.