The number of operations cancelled for non-clinical reasons at SWAH soared from 95 in 2014/15 to 157 in 2015/16. 

Non-clinical cancellations occur due to administrative errors, faulty equipment, lack of beds, unavailable staff, emergencies taking priority or other operations lasting longer than expected. 

Local MP Tom Elliott has expressed his concern, describing the number of cancelled operations for non-clinical reasons as worrying. He says this underlines the problems facing the Enniskillen hospital. 

“This 157 is not just a statistic, rather it is the lives of patients. We all are aware of the length of time many patients have to wait for operations, and the further waiting only exacerbates the stress and anxiety patients and their families face. 

“Many of these cancellations are often without any explanation which no doubt frustrates many of those who are delayed even further with their procedure. And in some situations these cancellations are often at the last minute, and again is exasperating for patients who are preparing themselves for the surgery. These figures only relate to non-clinical reasons and are only a small portion of cancelled operations.”

Mr Elliott says the 60% increase in cancelled operations at SWAH for non-clinical reasons, highlights the current crisis that the North’s health service is facing. 

“The problems facing our health service are vast and intertwined. This means that fixing one problem can lead to benefits in other areas. Facing head-on the shortage of bed and staff shortages, which is often cited as a reason for these cancelled operations, can be done by ensuring sufficient social care packages are available in the community therefore freeing up beds as it can reduce the number of ‘delayed discharges.’ This could allow beds available for short-stay outpatients and surgical procedures are available.”

In response, a spokesman for the Western Trust apologised for any inconvenience caused in relation to the cancellation of any individual patient’s operation.

He added: “For the period 1st April 2015 to 31st March 2016, a total of 4,620 Elective Admissions/Day Case procedures have been carried out in the South West Acute Hospital. While any cancellation is regrettable the Trust closely monitors the level of cancellations and works to minimise them. Where such cancellations arise, the Trust will reschedule an appointment for the patient affected as soon as possible.”