Preparation the tonic to avoid Kessock Bridge headaches, say health chiefs
HEALTH chiefs have today issued an appeal to try and patients don't face major headaches coping with five months of disruption on the Kessock Bridge.
As commuters prepare for the second part of repair works on the vital A9 link to get underway, NHS Highland has moved to reassure patients - and issue an appeal to leave plenty of time to make appointments in Inverness.
Phase two of the work starts on February 10 for a period of 20 weeks with lane restrictions throughout.
NHS Highland is asking that patients attending for appointments in Inverness be prepared and think about their travel arrangements to ensure they get to their appointment on time.
Deborah Jones, chief operating officer for NHS Highland, explained that last year the vast majority of patients attending hospital were very mindful of the road works and left in plenty of time to make their appointment.
She said: “Essentially all NHS Highland services will be running as normal.
“Our booking staff will remind patients about the bridge works when agreeing appointment times. Notices will also be placed in clinical areas to remind patients when booking their appointments to be aware of the bridge works.”
Ms Jones added that the potential impact on staff had been looked into before the start of phase one of the works last year, and there would be very little change.
She said: “The vast majority of our staff are front line clinical staff who have limited options for flexible working. In the same manner as last year we are expecting them to make their own arrangements to make sure they are at work on time.
"They will be supported by their managers if there are any expected difficulties.
“Other staff will be encouraged to reduce use of cars including using video conferencing, lift sharing, or working from home where possible.
“The work has been well publicised and we are asking our staff and patients to take personal responsibility and turn up on time. Public transport is being increased and local organisations are also promoting various travel schemes.
“We will continue to assess the full impact of the bridge works and make any further arrangements if required.”
NHS Highland has also issued a number of useful links for further information on public transport, lift-sharing and traffic infomation. These include:
