The New South Wales (NSW) government’s claim regarding cancelled chemotherapy appointments during a doctors’ strike has been revised. Initially, the government stated that the industrial action, involving 3,500 doctors, had impacted 486 chemotherapy appointments for cancer patients. However, this figure was later corrected, with officials acknowledging that the actual number pertained to oncology appointments, which include but are not limited to chemotherapy treatments. The spokesperson for Health Minister Ryan Park clarified that the figure had risen to 667 cancelled oncology appointments, apologising for the misinformation provided to the media.
The Australian Salaried Medical Officers’ Federation (ASMOF), which represents the striking doctors, disputed the government’s initial statement, asserting that no chemotherapy sessions were cancelled. ASMOF executive director Andrew Holland highlighted that discussions with oncologists revealed no evidence of chemotherapy cancellations due to the strike. He expressed concern that the government’s claims caused unnecessary anxiety for both medical professionals and patients reliant on vital treatment. Holland condemned the portrayal of the doctors’ actions as jeopardising patient care for the sake of negotiations over pay and working conditions.
The union criticised the government for failing to substantiate its claims and called the statements irresponsible, stating that oncologists were particularly hurt by the implication that they would compromise a patient’s treatment for personal gain. The ASMOF stated that during the strike, member doctors prioritised patient safety at all times.
Moving forward, ASMOF has indicated it will adhere to directives from the Industrial Relations Committee, pausing strike actions until July 1. This situation highlights the critical need for clear communication and reliable information within the medical sector, especially during times of industrial dispute.