Nurses and midwives at Northern Beaches Hospital in Sydney have embarked on a 26-hour strike, commencing at 6am today, to demand improved wages and enhanced staffing conditions. This action by the staff of the privately-operated facility comes alongside an overtime ban, though emergency services will remain unaffected. The hospital has come under scrutiny following the tragic death of a toddler, Joe Massa, last September. A recent review revealed he was left waiting for an extended period without proper monitoring, which his parents claim contributed to inadequate care that ultimately led to his death. The tragedy has intensified concerns regarding patient safety and resource shortages at the hospital, which also serves public patients under a NSW government contract. On the same day, nurses at Campbelltown and Nepean hospitals in Western Sydney are participating in strikes, highlighting widespread dissatisfaction within the healthcare sector. NSW Premier Chris Minns has addressed the incident concerning Joe Massa, labelling it “every parent’s worst nightmare” and suggesting the need for further investigations into the case. The industrial action reflects ongoing frustrations over prolonged wait times and perceived systemic failures in patient care.
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