Wigan doctor reassures NHS staff and patients over PPE supplies

A handful of NHS workers in Wigan had made online appeals for donations of the gowns, of which they said availability was dwindling at the borough’s hospitals because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

But the medical director of the borough’s NHS Trust, WWL, said that while there was indeed a huge demand for PPE (personal protective equipment), there was no need for staff to worry about shortages.

Dr Sanjay Arya, Medical Director and Consultant Cardiologist of WWL said: “We are committed to providing our staff with the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Demand for PPE has increased significantly increased across the country and the NHS supply chain is working hard to ensure that stocks are distributed as quickly as possible. We currently have sufficient stock of gowns and contingency arrangements are in place for alternatives should it be necessary.

“We are taking regular deliveries of equipment and we are ensuring the appropriate PPE is delivered to all wards and departments where it is needed. We are following national guidance for the protection of our staff and that means there are different requirements depending on the nature of their work and the area they work in.”

Dr Arya added: “I completely understand that anxiety amongst our staff is running high at this very difficult time but it is important for everyone to know that we are making sure our patients, staff, agency workers, volunteers and other colleagues are protected and can stay safe.”