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The Sun
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Easter trading
Wednesday April 18, 2012 PH: 5777 868
Sun Weather
Today 4-17
Thursday 5-16
Saturday 4-20 Outlook for Today
Friday 5-17
Becoming fine. Southeasterlies easing
Don’s wish
Retailers talk about Easter weekend trading.
Page 2
Big box retail Greg Hall from Stirling Sports is expecting the worse.
Page 5
War veteran Ivan Gibbons talks about his time during WWII.
Page 10
Open Day at the
SimcOx StaDium Run by the blenheim inDOOR SpORtS centRe
Open Day New extensions at the Blenheim Indoor Sports Center
Page 22 & 23
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Story and photo by Annabelle Latz Don Zimmerman does not like to complain, but waiting for urgently needed surgery is really getting him down. “I want to know the definition is of what is ‘urgent priority’, I was flabberghasted when I read that.” The 77 year-old Blenheim resident is referring to a letter he received from the Nelson Marlborough District Health Board last week. Don had a catheter inserted four weeks ago at Wairau Hospital, due to prostate complications, and was told he needs to be seen by a urologist again soon. The concern was reflected in his eyes, as he spoke of his anxiousness for awaiting surgery. While confined to a catheter, he cannot continue on with the shoulder surgery he needs,
as a result of a fall he had 12 months ago. I won’t be able to change the plugs on the catheter if I have shoulder surgery, so I need to get rid of that first.” The letter was informing him he was classified as an ‘urgent priority’ to see a urologist, and would be waiting between three and six months. “I have no say in the matter, I just do what I’m told.” He is very concerned because he is in discomfort, and has no idea of the seriousness of the case. “I can’t work out this so called ‘urgent.’ What is the legal definition? I always thought urgent was ‘as soon as possible.’” The Sun contacted the Nelson Marlborough District Health Board on Don’s behalf. Communications Advisor for NMDHB
Katherine Rock said there was no time definition for ‘urgent priority’ and her message was for patients to keep in touch with NMDHB if they had any questions. “If you think you are waiting too long, let us know.” As she understood, there were no long waiting lists for patients needing to see specialists. She advised that Don should contact the hospital directly. “And if he wanted to make a complaint, he is welcome to do that through the website or ring the District Health Board. “He may need help negotiating the system, we are more than happy to follow this up.” Katherine said The Sun will follow Don’s case, and find out if he gets to see a urologist at an earlier date.
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