As the clock ticks down to an impending strike by health-care support workers in Manitoba, Shared Health officials are warning residents of significant delays in emergency services beginning Tuesday. The strike, threatened by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) and the Manitoba Government and General Employees' Union (MGEU), comes after negotiations for a new contract remain stalled.

If the strike materializes, it could involve up to 25,000 health-care workers, severely impacting the region's health services. In a press conference on Monday, Dr. Jose Francois, the chief medical officer for Shared Health, stated, "We know a strike will result in delays and waits in our emergency departments and urgent care, as flow through the system slows down."

One of the main concerns is the expected backlog in hospital services. Dr. Francois highlighted that patients requiring urgent attention will be prioritized, and individuals with less critical issues are encouraged to seek alternative care options such as family doctors, walk-in clinics, or virtual health services. This strategic redirection aims to ensure that those most in need receive timely medical attention, but also underscores the potential strain on the system.

Due to the looming threat of a walkout, Shared Health has already canceled some non-essential surgeries, ensuring that only life-saving and high-priority procedures are conducted. In a collaborative effort, both the operational and nursing leadership at Shared Health have assured that essential workers will still be on duty during the strike, although the extent of staffing reductions may vary across the province.

“With a potential 50% reduction in some areas, we must remain prepared for various levels of service disruption," stated Monika Warren, chief operating officer of provincial coordinated health services. Home care services will also see adjustments, with high-priority clients receiving continued support while services for lower-priority cases might face delays or cancellations.

The strike is scheduled to begin at 6 a.m. on Tuesday unless an agreement is reached beforehand. As negotiations continue, the pressure mounts on both sides to find common ground, with thousands of lives hanging in the balance. Manitobans are advised to stay informed and prepared for potential health service challenges in the coming days.

Stay tuned as we monitor the situation closely and provide updates on the evolving negotiations and their effects on healthcare access in the province.