Major health service disruptions expected on Thursday

The Health Service Executive (HSE) is preparing for substantial disruptions across numerous health and social care services on Thursday, 12 November 2026, due to public sector work stoppages.

All non-urgent healthcare services in hospitals and community settings are expected to be cancelled. This includes routine hospital procedures, outpatient appointments, community-based day services, primary care clinics, and other scheduled care services. Administrative operations within the HSE will also be impacted by the work stoppage.

The HSE is actively engaging with health sector unions to arrange contingency plans for essential services. Healthcare teams will reach out directly to patients who are affected, with all postponed appointments to be rescheduled at the earliest opportunity.

Critical services such as emergency departments, ambulance services (operating at a reduced capacity), urgent cancer treatments, and dialysis will continue to operate. Furthermore, general practitioners, GP out-of-hours services, and pharmacists will remain accessible in the community.

Further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available. The HSE apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the patience and understanding of patients and their families during this period.