KEY POINTS:
A shortage of anaesthetic technicians has seen Middlemore Hospital cancel operations for around 1000 patients over the past three months.
Up to a third of the 42 anaesthetic technician positions have been vacant over the winter months, forcing surgeries to be put off because not enough staff are available to work the theatres.
Counties Manukau's acting general manager of surgery, Alan Wilson, said the shortage occurred largely as a result of five staff members going on maternity leave at the same time, and a further three temporarily returning to the UK for several months.
Their absence meant that up to 175 theatre sessions were cancelled each month, affecting around 800 patients in July and August alone.
"The situation has been very difficult for our staff, who have been frustrated at being unable to operate, and the problem has delayed elective surgery for patients."
Mr Wilson said the technicians had worked additional shifts to cover the shortfall. The situation was also improving this month, with two staff returning from overseas and four trainees now able to work in the theatres.
Two new anaesthetic technicians arrive from the UK next month and another staff member returns from overseas.
"The situation will improve vastly over the next few weeks and will be largely resolved by mid-October," said Mr Wilson.
Counties Manukau faced a similar situation two years ago, when it was 19 vacancies short of the 40 anaesthetic technicians needed. Because of a lack of job candidates in New Zealand, the board shopped for staff in England.
Mr Wilson said the health board had increased the number of trainee technicians to reduce the likelihood of future problems. It was also continuing to recruit from New Zealand and overseas.
The Auckland District Health Board had three vacancies out of a full complement of 55.
STAFF WANTED
* Middlemore Hospital has been up to 14 anaesthetic technicians short (out of 42) over the past three months.
* Absences meant up to 175 theatre sessions cancelled each month in July and August, affecting around 800 patients.
* Anaesthetic technicians prepare operating theatres and clinics for anaesthetic procedures, and assist anaesthetists in the operating theatre.
